Reece James issues major Chelsea injury update with four-word message

Reece James could return to action sooner rather than later after the defender posted an intriguing update to his Instagram story

Reece James has issued a major injury update ahead of Chelsea's clash against Bournemouth after the international break. The 23-year-old defender suffered a hamstring injury in training last month, with Mauricio Pochettino confirming that he's set to be on the sidelines for a 'few weeks'.

"It's a hamstring – it's not a few days, a few weeks maybe," said the Blues manager. "I think it's a sad moment because he's our captain, he was so excited to be the captain, full of energy. We are going to assess him day by day. He is going to come back stronger than he was."

James looks set to make his return in the coming weeks, with his latest Instagram story suggesting that he might even be available for selection sooner rather than later. Gesturing a peace sign with his hand, the Cobham graduate wrote: "Back to it soon."

The Blues also failed to make it past the third round in each of the domestic cup competitions, while burning through four different managers. All in all, the England international made 24 appearances for the west Londoners last term, starting just 14 times.

Despite an extensive injury record, James was named as the new Chelsea captain following Cesar Azpilicueta's departure. Pochettino described the Englishman as the perfect candidate for the role, with Ben Chilwell acting as his deputy.

Pochettino said: "I think he’s not only a player that can be a leader, because he’s a leader with his character, his qualities. He’s a person also that’s going to be the future of the club.

"He came through the Academy. I think for us, for me and for the club, he’s a perfect player, person, to be a captain."