Overview
- Reece James missed a Tuesday training session at Cobham with a knee issue and is a doubt for Saturday’s trip to Everton, with manager Xabi Alonso refusing to give a fixed return date.
- Alonso said the club will monitor James on a week-by-week basis after he ‘‘felt something’’ in his knee, a cautious approach that leaves his availability uncertain for the coming fixtures.
- Young winger Jamie Gittens hurt his ankle while with England Under-21s and faces roughly three weeks out, removing an attacking option the club had hoped to use off the bench.
- Striker Emmanuel Emegha has returned to first-team training after a pre-season hamstring problem but was left out of the Bournemouth squad, suggesting he is fit but not yet in matchday plans.
- Chelsea have midfield and defensive cover with Moises Caicedo back to full fitness and Romeo Lavia, Valentin Barco and Jordan Henderson available, but the congested schedule raises selection and tactical risks if James’ absence continues.