Chelsea captain Reece James has endured another setback after picking up a hamstring injury in training, manager Enzo Maresca confirmed.
The 24-year-old defender, who missed significant portions of last season due to hamstring surgery, had only recently returned to action last month.
However, he is now sidelined again and will miss Chelsea’s Premier League fixture against Leicester City on Saturday.
Speaking about James’ condition, Maresca reassured fans that the injury does not appear to be long-term but emphasised the need for caution. “Reece felt something small in training two days ago, and we don’t want to take any risks,” he said.
“It’s a muscular problem in the hamstring. For now, he’s out for the weekend. It’s difficult to say if he’ll be ready for the Conference League next Thursday, but we hope to have him back soon.”
Despite James’ absence, Chelsea’s squad remains largely intact, with key players such as Cole Palmer, Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Malo Gusto, and Romeo Lavia all fit and available after minor concerns during the international break.
However, Maresca indicated that midfield stars Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez may not be at full fitness after their travels to South America for international duty.
“The starting team won’t be 100%,” Maresca admitted, noting that the pair had only one training session upon their return to London.
Chelsea will aim to bounce back from their recent inconsistencies in the league, but James’ absence leaves a significant gap in defence as they prepare to face Leicester.
