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Reece James has largely stayed clear of any significant injuries this season, making 36 appearances in all competitions, his most since 2021/22.
But the Chelsea captain has been out of action since mid-March with a hamstring injury, raising fears that he could be experiencing another setback.
James last featured in his side’s 1-0 loss at Newcastle on 14 March, missing the most recent England camp.
When could Reece James return for Chelsea?
Liam Rosenior suggested the right-back was making good progress in his recovery before last weekend’s 7-0 FA Cup quarter-final drubbing of Port Vale.
But will James be ready to play in Sunday’s Premier League game against title hopefuls Manchester City at Stamford Bridge?
Rosenior has not been able to provide any certainty.
“I don't know,” he said when asked if James could be involved against City. “We work day-to-day, so I don't want to give a timeline and not come through with that timeline, put pressure on those players, but they're all working really, really well at this moment.”
It seems like this weekend’s match could come too soon for James, then, particularly given his injury history.
Chelsea will not want to risk any aggravation of his hamstring problem, and James will be looking ahead to the World Cup, now just a couple of months away.
The 26-year-old is likely to be a key player for the Three Lions in North America if he remains fit.
Chelsea will also hope that he returns for a crucial final few weeks of the season, as Rosenior’s side look to secure a top five spot in the Premier League and qualify for the Champions League.
It is a busy period for the Blues, who host Manchester United after playing City, then travel to Brighton & Hove Albion before their FA Cup semi-final with Leeds United on 25 April.
Having James back for some key upcoming games could be a major boost for Chelsea.
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