Chelsea right-back Reece James did not pick up a serious ankle injury during the 1-0 defeat to Newcastle at the weekend, according to talkSPORT.

The radio station claim that a scan showed that the 20-year-old only sustained minor bruising after a challenge with Ciaran Clark in the closing stages of the game at St James’ Park on Saturday night.

It is not known whether James will be fit and available to face Arsenal tomorrow but the reported diagnosis will be a huge relief to the player. The fullback missed the start of the season after damaging his ankle whilst playing for England’s Under 20s in the summer.

Manager Frank Lampard says Christian Pulisic is expected to be out for another two weeks with an abductor injury. The Blues boss believes the American international will return to action after the winter break in time to face Manchester United.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek is progressing in his recovery from an Achilles injury. The midfielder has been out since May and his return has taken longer than predicted, but he is currently training with the academy sides and is closing in on a first-team comeback.

Marcos Alonso (muscular) and Marco van Ginkel (knee) are the only other players currently on the treatment table.