Reece James injury update: When Chelsea star could return after surgery is confirmed

Chelsea and Reece James have now agreed that surgery is the best course that should heal his persistent hamstring issues after the latest round of assessment which took place on Wednesday. 

The 24-year-old will now travel to Finland for the operation and is expected to be out of action for three to four months. He suffered the injury in Chelsea's 2-0 defeat to Everton, the seventh time he's had that in the last two years. 

There had been calls for him to take the surgery last summer when he missed the last part of the season, but sources say he was keen on having an expert opinion before deciding the best line of action. He will now hope that this decision finally gives him the best chance of recovery. 

James was spotted at Stamford Bridge on Thursday night as Chelsea battled to a 4-2 penalty shootout win against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup, he will also hope that the surgery process goes well and he returns in time to make the England squad for the Europeans Championship next year. 

He missed the World Cup in Qatar due to injury and sources close to him say he's desperate to play for his country at the Euros next year. 

Chelsea confirmed last week that he had picked up an injury and were looking at the best possible solution to end the nightmare. A club statement read:  "Captain Reece James has undergone medical assessment... The defender was withdrawn during the first half at Goodison Park, and scan results have confirmed a hamstring injury. Reece will now begin his rehabilitation programme at Cobham."

James has made 146 appearances for Chelsea since graduating from the club's academy and making his senior debut in 2019. He started the Champions League final against Manchester City in 2021 which Chelsea won.