REECE JAMES’ World Cup dream looks over after Chelsea confirmed he will miss EIGHT WEEKS through injury – but the star insists he “won’t give up” just yet.
The 22-year-old went off with a knee problem during Chelsea’s 2-0 win over AC Milan on Tuesday night.
England fans were left desperately concerned about the extent of the injury as fellow Three Lions right-back Kyle Walker is already facing a race to be fit for Qatar.
And Chelsea have now confirmed James will be out for eight weeks, with his availability for Qatar in huge doubt as a result.
But despite admitting he’s in a “race against time”, the flying wing-back has vowed to give his all in rehab to try and make the plane for Qatar.
An official statement from Chelsea read: “Following the knee injury sustained in our away match against AC Milan, Reece has received treatment from the Chelsea medical department and visited a specialist this weekend.
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“After consultation between all parties, Reece will now undergo a rehabilitation programme and is expected to be out for eight weeks.”
James later tweeted: “The race against time is on… but we won’t give up.”
It leaves Gareth Southgate facing a selection dilemma ahead of the tournament, with Kieran Trippier expected to now be first choice to play on the right side of England’s defence.
Walker, who can play as both a right-back and right centre-half, is a doubt after undergoing groin surgery.
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Trent Alexander-Arnold is also out with an injury until the end of the month.
And while he is set to be back well in time for the World Cup, Southgate did not give him any game time in their recent Nations League games against Italy and Germany.
James’ injury was originally played down as merely a “minor jarring of the knee”.
But he was then seen with a brace on his leg, which led to cause for concern.
And now damage to the ligaments will keep him side-lined for a lengthy period of time.
Immediately after the Milan game, Chelsea boss Graham Potter said: “It’s pretty normal that as soon as there is a bit of discomfort the day or two after, you need to get it checked properly.
“There is discomfort so we just need to check and see a specialist.
“He has been in fantastic form for us, so fingers crossed we wait for good news.”
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Chelsea now face a number of key games without James – including matches against Manchester United, Arsenal and Manchester City.
Potter’s men currently sit fourth in the Premier League table after a five-game winning run.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
