Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso says Reece James’ latest injury will have no impact on the club’s transfer plans for the January window.
It was revealed on Friday that the midfielder has undergone successful surgery on a knee injury he picked up in training over the international break.
James will reportedly be sidelined for up to three months as Chelsea do not want to rush back onto the pitch. He has suffered a spate of injuries over the course of his career.
“We are all disappointed for him,” Alonso said in his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s trip to Everton.
“He wanted to have a good start after the international break, but in the last training [session] he picked up an injury.
“We wanted to be cautious and wait to know the result of the tests, but now the surgery has gone well and has been successful. Keep supporting him.
“He’ll be close to the team, he’s a great influence. I wish him the best recovery.
“We don’t set timelines, but he will be out for several weeks.”
Alonso could not confirm a timeline for his return to action, but he did admit it won’t be a swift recovery.
“We don’t have the exact [time out],” said the Blues boss. “It’ll be several weeks, for sure. It’s not going to be short, like two or three weeks. It’s going to be longer, and after we will see.
“Before Christmas or after Christmas, time will tell, but things have to be done properly, that he feels right and that knee is in the best possible condition.
“It’s a disappointment for everyone and for him but we have a squad to deal with the injuries.”
Alonso: Reece James injury won’t affect Chelsea transfer plans
Asked if James’ injury will have any effect on Chelsea’s January transfer plans, Alonso answered:
“No, I don’t think so because we expect for that time that he’s back; some weeks before, some weeks [gestures other side] so let’s see, it’s not exact the timeline with him, so it doesn’t affect [transfer plans].”
Alonso added that there are no other new injury concerns in the Chelsea squad ahead of the Everton game.
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