Chelsea fullback Reece James is set to miss the Blues’ next two games against West Ham and Arsenal with a knee injury, according to reports in England.

The 21-year-old has been struggling with the issue in recent weeks but a challenge on Wolves’ Daniel Podence in the 2-1 defeat last week aggravated the problem.

After undergoing a scan, it was deemed unnecessary for James to have surgery but, due to the fluid and inflammation in his knee, he will still need to be rested and it is believed he will be sidelined for at least the next week.

It’s better news than first feared as it was thought that an operation would be required and it is now hoped he could return for the match versus Aston Villa next Monday evening.

Club captain Cesar Azpilicueta is expected to deputise in James’ absence and fans will be keeping their fingers crossed that the England international comes back as soon as possible.