Graham Potter reveals massive injury blow with must-win Leeds clash ‘too soon’ for crocked Reece James
GRAHAM POTTER has revealed details behind the injury of key star Reece James ahead of the must-win clash at Leeds.
Potter is under significant pressure to win the next two games, but will have to do so without his starting right-back.
GettyReece James is absent for today’s crunch clash with Leeds[/caption]
GettyBut Potter also revealed an expected return date[/caption]
After revealing James was a doubt during Friday’s press conference, Potter has since given more detail on his injury and an expected return date.
Speaking to Chelsea club media he said: “Reece is feeling a bit of tightness [in his hamstring] which is sometimes understandable coming back from injury.
“We have been assessing him this week and feel it is too soon for the game today.
“There is a strong chance he will be available for Tuesday [against Borussia Dortmund] but this game comes too soon.”
Chelsea will also be without England ace Mason Mount.
Potter told reporters on Friday: “Mason has had a problem with his lower abdomen area, pubic bone, so he will miss the game tomorrow.
“I don’t think it will be too long, but too soon for tomorrow.”
It is not the first time James has missed games through injury this season, only recently coming back from a knee injury which kept him out of the World Cup.
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However, James may have returned sooner and fitter had his injury not been aggravated in his first game back.
Potter will also be unable to count on Cesar Azpilicueta following the concussion he suffered in the 1-0 defeat to Southampton.
In addition, Thiago Silva will also be sidelined for up to six weeks, while N’Golo Kante is not fit enough to feature after only returning to training earlier this week.
