Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso expressed his disappointment at captain Reece James’ latest injury setback, which has reportedly left him facing a three-month lay-off.
The Blues confirmed on Friday that James had undergone minor knee surgery on an injury suffered in training ahead of last week’s 5-1 win over Bournemouth.
While the club did not give a timeline for his return, subsequent reports have claimed the England right-back faces another elongated spell on the sidelines.
And, though he also did not offer a timescale for James’ recovery, Alonso indicated it will indeed be an extended absence for the 26-year-old.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Everton, Alonso said: “We are all disappointed, especially for him. He wanted to have a good start after the international break, but he picked up an injury.
“The surgery has been successful. We are supporting him.
“I wish him the best recovery. We won’t set timelines, but we expect him to be out for several weeks.
“It’s not going to be short. Whether it’s before or after Christmas then time will tell. It needs to be done properly.
“We have a big squad to deal with injuries.We have four more games until the next break so I think we can manage well with the players that we have.”
Asked if Chelsea might need to sign cover for James in the January transfer window, Alonso replied: “I don’t think so, we expect by that time he will be back. It doesn’t affect [that].
“He is still a very important player. He is the captain, he is a great influence and hopefully after he recovers from this injury he will be available for many games.
“He has a good mentality and we need him.”
In addition to losing his versatility in being able to play right-back and in midfield, James’ absence also leaves a leadership void in the Chelsea team.
But Alonso has two leading candidates to take that role, adding: “We have Moi [Moises Caicedo], Levi [Colwill], we have players who take the responsibility and take the role in a perfect way.
“They have the support from the rest when they see them with the armband, so it is no bother.”
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