Chelsea captain Reece James is set for another spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery on a minor knee injury.
James featured in all of Chelsea's first six games under new boss Xabi Alonso before missing the 3-0 defeat to Brentford before the international break with a hamstring issue. He was not called up for England duty and was hoping to make his return to action after the extended three-week international break.
However, the Blues skipper then picked up a minor knee injury in training, which saw him miss last weekend's emphatic 5-1 win over Bournemouth.
Surgery confirmed after tests
James now looks set for a longer spell away from the first team after tests showed he required surgery on his latest injury problem.
A statement from Chelsea read: 'Captain Reece James has undergone successful minor knee surgery.
'The 26-year-old was absent from Saturday's 5-1 victory over Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge while medical assessments took place following the injury suffered in training.
'Those assessments confirmed surgery would be the required course of action.
'Reece has already begun his road to recovery and will be supported by the club's medical department at Cobham during this rehabilitation phase.
'Everyone at Chelsea wishes Reece a speedy recovery and will support him on his road to return.'
Midfield options for Alonso
James has largely been deployed as a central midfielder by Alonso in the Spaniard's 3-4-2-1 formation. Moises Caicedo and Jordan Henderson started in the middle of the park last weekend and could continue after their impressive performances in the 5-1 win.
Henderson scored twice for his first goals since joining the Blues, while Caicedo managed 72 minutes in what was his first start of the season.
