Chelsea captain Reece James is set to be out for Three months after undergoing knee surgery.
The 26-year-old suffered a knock in training which ruled him out of the 5-1 win over Bournemouth last Saturday.
Assessments later confirmed that surgery would be needed to resolve the knee issue.
James went under the knife this week and has already started his rehabilitation.
An offical Chelsea statement, released on Friday morning, read: “Captain Reece James has undergone successful minor knee surgery.
“The 26-year-old was absent from Saturday’s 5-1 victory over Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge while medical assessments took place following the injury suffered in training.
“Those assessments confirmed surgery would be the required course of action.
“Reece has already begun his road to recovery and will be supported by the club’s medical department at Cobham during this rehabilitation phase.
“Everyone at Chelsea wishes Reece a speedy recovery and will support him on his road to return.”
James has made six appearances for Chelsea so far this term, with the latest coming against Hull City on September 12.
He missed the club’s final game before the international break with a hamstring problem and was forced to withdraw from the England squad.
But SunSport understands his latest setback could keep him unavailable for three months.
The full-back has endured a number of significant injury problems throughout his career.
James has battled through more than 10 hamstring injuries and multiple operations.
He missed 31 games for club and country during the 2023/24 season after undergoing surgery.
Chelsea currently sit sixth in the Premier League table with 10 points from their opening six games.