REECE JAMES will miss Chelsea’s trip to Aston Villa on Sunday but Hakim Ziyech could return to the squad after illness.
Chelsea academy graduate James, 22, went off injured in the 2-0 Champions League win over AC Milan on Tuesday.
Azpilicueta could start with James nursing a knee injury
James could miss the World Cup and will see a specialist this weekend
Ziyech is returning from illness
However, the injury to the right-back’s knee could be worse than originally feared, according to the Daily Mail.
And England international James could miss the World Cup as a result.
Responding to the report, Blues boss Graham Potter revealed James is set to see a specialist over the weekend.
Potter also said James “felt not too bad” on Thursday, and wants to avoid “looking into the doomsday scenario” until there’s official confirmation.
Regardless of James’ visit to the specialist, he will miss Chelsea’s trip to Villa Park.
Chelsea head into the fixture unbeaten under Potter.
The Blues are sat fourth in the Premier League, but are eight points off table-toppers Arsenal.
James’ absence could allow Trevoh Chalobah to start his fourth game of the season as part of a back three alongside Thiago Silva and Kalidou Koulibaly.
HOW TO GET FREE BETS ON FOOTBALL
The trio will protect Kepa Arrizabalaga in between the sticks.
Cesar Azpilicueta could operate at wing-back, where James would typcially play.
Ben Chilwell is continuing his return to regular first-team football in a boost to his World Cup chances.
Potter could look to shake things up in midfield and go with Mateo Kovacic and Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
N’Golo Kante remains out with a hamstring injury.
Mason Mount will keep his place and in a twist, Hakim Ziyech could be handed a start, providing support to Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang.
Ziyech missed the trip to Milan through illness.
Alternatively, Marc Cucurella could start in the back three ahead of Koulibaly.
San Siro goal-scorer Jorginho could keep his place, partnering Kovacic.
Armando Broja could be handed a rare start having scored in his last appearance against Wolves.
And Christian Pulisic could come in for Ziyech if the Moroccan isn’t fit enough to start.
Broja could be handed a rare start
