Chelsea captain Reece James is facing a prolonged recovery from a hamstring injury, which he sustained during the pre-season. Initially expected to return by the end of September, reports indicate that his healing process has been slower than anticipated, prompting club doctors to put his comeback on hold without any new setbacks. After undergoing surgery for a different hamstring issue last December, James has not played a single minute this season and missed the last campaign with similar injuries. Despite his absence, Chelsea welcomed back several other players to training, but James remains sidelined. The 24-year-old has struggled with injuries over the past two years, limiting him to just 26 Premier League appearances in that span. Fans are hopeful for his return to first-team action before the year concludes.