The England international has been hampered by several muscular injuries in the last two years and he has suffered yet another setback.

Blues manager Enzo Maresca has said that he will be assessed on a game-by-game basis, but an exact timescale should be revealed soon.

James is regarded as one of the best right-backs in the Premier League, but he is no longer an assured starter for the west London giants.

Before the international break, Maresca preferred to start Malo Gusto at right-back and James only came on as a late substitute in the derby.

Gusto's form probably means that James won't be missed on the pitch.

Chelsea face Leicester City at the King Power Stadium this weekend and they will be aiming to close the nine-point gap to leaders Liverpool .

The Blues have performed above expectations and they are third in the league standings ahead of London rivals Arsenal on goal difference.

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