Chelsea defender suffers hamstring injury, out for a month

Chelsea defender Reece James has suffered a hamstring injury and could be sidelined for around a month.

The England international was recently named as the Blues' new captain, and he started the season opener against Liverpool.

However, he was substituted late into the game, and it has now been confirmed that he has sustained a hamstring injury.

The news is a big blow for the Blues, but they have sufficient cover in the squad to overcome the setback for James.

Malo Gusto is the immediate back-up option for the England international. He was in fine form the Blues in pre-season.

Meanwhile, last weekend's goalscorer Axel Disasi can also operate at right-back. He started in the back three versus Liverpool.

Chelsea face West Ham United at the London Stadium this weekend. They should go into the game as slight favourites.

The club have bolstered their midfield significantly in the last few days with the signings of Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia.