Chelsea captain Reece James has undergone successful minor knee surgery, the club confirmed. Manager Xabi Alonso expressed confidence that the 26-year-old defender will be back in action before January, avoiding an impact on the club's transfer plans.
James sustained a fresh knee injury during training, ruling him out for "several weeks." Alonso described the setback as a "disappointment" but hopes for his captain's return during the festive period, which he believes will prevent the need to enter the transfer market for a replacement.
The defender, who missed Chelsea's 5-1 victory over Bournemouth, had started the first four Premier League games of the season but has not featured since the 2-2 draw with Hull on 12 September.