Why Chelsea have delayed surgery decision to rectify incessant Reece James hamstring injuries - explained

The Blues captain was expected to make a decision regarding a possible operation on Monday but has decided to delay the call. Instead, he was sent for further assessments on the injury on Wednesday as Chelsea look to find out more about his condition before coming up with a recovery plan, the Evening Standard reports.

The 24-year-old has been plagued by injury for large spells of his career, particularly since early 2022. He pulled up in Chelsea's first game of the season and returned to action in mid-November, but he damaged his hamstring again in the 2-0 loss at Everton earlier this month.

James has been on a special training programme since his return in November as the Blues looked to prevent him from suffering further fitness concerns until he was dealt another recent blow. The issue with his hamstring is believed to affect both legs and have increased the likelihood of suffering other injuries, too. He is expected to be sidelined until March following his latest setback.

The right-back and Chelsea will soon make a decision on whether or not he needs an operation to resolve the issue. He will hope to be back in action soon to give him a chance of making England's squad for Euro 2024 in Gemany next year.