Why Chelsea have confirmed double injury blow and left out crucial Reece James update

Chelsea have confirmed both Trevoh Chalobah and Carney Chukwuemeka have picked up setbacks in their bid to return to full fitness ahead of the game against Arsenal this weekend.

Chukwuemeka started the season on fire and scored his first senior goal in the game against West Ham before a knee injury meant he had to undergo surgery and has since been out looking in.

Chalobah also picked up an injury during pre-season and has been working round the clock to return despite growing rumours that he might be surplus to requirement at the club.

Chelsea confirmed both players were in doubt about this weekend's game in a short statement: "Defender Trevoh Chalobah and midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka have both suffered recent setbacks in their bid to return from respective injuries sustained earlier this season.

"The duo will now go under further review before continuing their rehabilitation at Cobham with the club’s medical staff."

Surprisingly Chelsea have not commented on reports that captain Reece James who has been sidelined since the game against Liverpool is a doubt for this weekend's Londonderby. Club sources say they are not sure if the player could return at this point to play a part thus the reason for their silence on the skipper.

James missed a total of 24 league games last season and was left of the England World Cup due to a knee injury. He also missed the end of last campaign with a hamstring issue.