Reece James injury latest: Early Chelsea team news vs Manchester United reveals light at end of the tunnel

Chelsea’s season is in danger of ending in disappointment fashion after a string of heavy defeats.

Having lost 8-2 on aggregate to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last 16, Liam Rosenior’s side have slumped to back-to-back 3-0 losses in the Premier League, against Everton and Manchester City respectively.

And it has been clear of late that the Blues are missing the influence of captain Reece James.

When will Reece James play next for Chelsea?

James has been out of action with a familiar hamstring issue since a 1-0 defeat to Newcastle last month.

Chelsea appeared to be managing his minutes well and minimising the risk of the kind of recurring injuries that had marred previous seasons, but he has now been sidelined for a number of weeks.

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Rosenior has issued a positive update before Saturday’s important Premier League clash with Manchester United, though.

“Reece has been running today, which is great,” the Chelsea boss said on Monday.

A return to action may still be a little way off, however, with Chelsea keen to ensure James is not brought back too soon.

An FA Cup semi-final against Leeds in late April will be in their thoughts, with that competition now their only chance of silverware this season.

There are some key league games in May, too, notably against top five rivals Liverpool at Anfield.

Chelsea will want James back at 100% fitness for the final run-in as they look to end the campaign with a trophy and qualification for the Champions League.

James will also be conscious of the World Cup on the horizon, and the need to avoid any further setbacks to ensure he is in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.

It is unlikely he will feature against Manchester United this weekend, then, but expect to see James back fairly soon.