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Revealed: The six Chelsea matches Reece James will miss due to knee injury

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IMAGO / Sportimage

Reece James is set to miss at least six games for Chelsea after suffering a knee injury setback against AFC Bournemouth.

The 23-year-old went down in the 52nd minute of Chelsea’s 2-0 win over the Cherries at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, his first match since October after overcoming a knee injury.

Scans on Wednesday showed the defender had suffered a similar injury which has now ruled him out for up to a month.

James shared his disappointment after all of his hard work to get back fit for the Premier League restart was set back after just one game.

He wrote: “2022 has been the toughest year to date.

“Just wanna thank you all for the support, none of you go unnoticed.

“It’s naturally effected me mentally, I’m currently just tryna deal with the cards I’ve been dealt.

“I hope your end of year is filled with peace, joy and happiness.”

With Chelsea now without James for around a month, Graham Potter will need to act along with co-owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali, as well as the recruitment team to bring in cover for the England international.

READ MORE: Todd Boehly needs to make Chelsea transfer decision in January amid Reece James setback

Chelsea have an important month coming up after ending their five game winless run to get back to winning ways and to end 2022 with a victory.

But what games will Reece James miss?

Should James be out for the whole month, he will miss six fixtures including an FA Cup third round tie against Manchester City. Should they progress past Pep Guardiola’s side, a fourth round clash awaits at the end of January.

Sunday 1 January: Nottingham Forest (a) – Premier League

Thursday 5 January: Manchester City (h) – Premier League

Sunday 8 January: Manchester City (a) – FA Cup third round

Thursday 12 January – Fulham (a) – Premier League

Sunday 15 January – Crystal Palace (h) – Premier League

Saturday 21 January – Liverpool (a) – Premier League

When could James return from injury?

Chelsea face Fulham at home on February 3 which could be set as a target for the right-back to make his comeback.

However, Potter, James and the medical team will be cautious and need to ensure they don’t rush him back to avoid a further, and avoidable, setback.

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