Maresca and his coaching staff do not have a return date for James, after a recent hamstring injury failed to heal properly. The Chelsea right-back was originally sidelined due to a hamstring operation in December 2023,

Reece James could be one of the unluckiest players in the history of the Premier League. His injury record is horrendous. The last time the right-back played more than 15 games in a season was in

According to TBR Football, there are as many as five players who have been placed on a shortlist of potential alternatives ahead of 2025. The standout names are said to be Barcelona 's Jules Kounde, who could also be used at centre-back, and the more attack-minded Jeremie Frimpong of Bayer Leverkusen.

Key Players Including Reece James and Enzo Fernandez Set for ComebackChelsea FC is on the brink of a significant boost as they gear up for their upcoming Premier League clash

Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Reece James and Malo Gusto will play no part in Chelsea ’s trip to Bournemouth due to injury, but Romeo Lavia could be involved in the Premier League clash.

Reports earlier this week claimed that Reece James' return to action had suffered a setback and that his hamstring has 'failed to heal as well as expected'.

Reece James’ latest injury blow has caused Chelsea to consider their right-back options in January, with a big money move for a former target reportedly on the agenda.