Thomas Tuchel admits Chelsea are “worried” by Reece James’ new injury concern.
James picked up a muscle problem in the Blues’ 4-0 Premier League win at Burnley on Saturday, in just his third game back after a long-term hamstring tear.
The England international raced into sparkling form on his return from that problem but could now face another spell on the sidelines.
“Reece James has a muscular problem after his last three matches,” said Tuchel.
“It’s not his previously injured leg, the other leg.
“But still we need examination. We thought he could be maybe on the pitch today but he couldn’t. So we need further examinations to see what’s going on.
“He felt it during the match at Burnley, so that’s why we took him out and it didn’t get better.
“So we are worried, but still we need some more details and some more information.
“It was obvious what he gives to our team and can give to our team. So it’s not good news at the moment.
“It’s a setback for sure, but I hope not a big one.”
But Tuchel revealed the England left-back remains a long way from recovery, with the timescale of him missing the rest of the season not changing.
“I think they did the photo during the one minute he was outside,” said Tuchel.
“So we were all pretty excited, but it was just that the weather made it possible that he can do the exercise he normally does inside outside.
“They made him smell the grass, get a bit excited.
“But, not even close to football, team training, whatever.”
