Reece James ruled out as Chelsea prepare for Leicester clash

The news comes as a setback for the Blues, as James, who only returned to action in October, faces another spell on the sidelines due to injury.

Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed James' absence and also expressed uncertainty regarding the availability of Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill.

Both players are fitness concerns after pulling out of international duty with England, having missed Nations League matches against Greece and Ireland.

"We have, for sure, just one injured player and that is Reece," Maresca said.

"Unfortunately, he felt something small and we do not want to take a risk with him at the weekend. He is the only one for sure who is not available for this weekend.

"The rest, some of them are better and some of them are a doubt, plus we need to wait because today is the first session we do with all of the players from international duty so we will see after today's session."

He added: "It is his hamstring with Reece, so a muscle problem. We don't want to take any risk with this weekend so hopefully it is not something long."

The match marks Chelsea's return to domestic action following the international break.

Chelsea currently sit third in the Premier League table and is looking to secure their first league win in November, having drawn with Manchester United and Arsenal in their last two outings.

The team will be eager to put recent setbacks behind them and maintain their position near the top of the table.  

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