Graham Potter, the manager of Chelsea, has disclosed that Reece James, the right-back, has been referred to a specialist due to concerns about the severity of his knee injury.
In spite of initial optimism regarding James’ injury, which he sustained in the 2-0 victory over AC Milan, additional examinations have revealed more serious damage, and the right-back may end up needing surgery, which would keep him out of the World Cup.
Naturally, James’ physical condition took centre stage during Potter’s press conference prior to Sunday’s matchup with Aston Villa.
“He is due to see a specialist over the weekend so until we get that information there is not much more I can add,” Potter said. “The rest will just be speculation from my perspective. We will wait and see.”
He added: “I don’t think [the injury has worsened] but again we just need to check. There is discomfort so we just need to check and see a specialist.”
Potter also confirmed that James did not appear to be struggling with the injury on Thursday but declined to discuss the latest diagnosis.
“He spoke yesterday and felt not too bad,” Potter said. “But again until you get these things checked, you never know so we need to make sure it’s checked with the specialist, and then we can find a way forward.
“There is no point looking at the doomsday scenario yet. We just need to check and make sure if he’s ok and then move forward.”
