Reece James: Chelsea defender could miss World Cup with England after suffering knee injury against AC Milan

Reece James could miss out on the World Cup after suffering a knee injury against AC Milan, according to widespread reports.

And while early indications suggested the injury was not serious, further scans on Thursday have reportedly revealed the injury is much worse than initially thought.

Blues boss Graham Potter, speaking ahead of Sunday’s clash with Aston Villa, tried to calm fears about the 22-year-old’s fitness.

“There is no point looking at a doomsday scenario just yet,” he said.

“When we spoke yesterday he didn’t feel so bad but you need to get things checked and see the way forward.”

He said the club will decide in the next 48 hours whether he will have surgery after seeing a specialist this weekend.

With the World Cup fast approaching, James’ absence would represent a huge blow to England boss Gareth Southgate.

England have had an unusual wealth of world-class quality in the right-back position in recent years, with James first choice in recent friendlies.

But Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kyle Walker and now James are injury doubts for Qatar, leaving Southgate’s options diminished with Newcastle’s Kieran Trippier the obvious successor.