England defender Reece James ruled out of World Cup with knee injury

Reece James will miss the World Cup after damaging knee ligaments against Milan, handing England a selection crisis at right wing-back.

The injury to James, who went off during Chelsea’s 2-0 win at Milan, was initially not through to be too serious. The 22-year-old, who has been in outstanding form for club and country this season, flew back from Italy on Wednesday night and was hopeful of making a swift return to action.

However James received bad news when he underwent a scan in London on Thursday, with tests revealing he had damaged ligaments. Chelsea said in a statement: “After consultation between all parties, Reece will now undergo a rehabilitation programme and is expected to be out for eight weeks.”

James had been in line to start in England’s opening group game against Iran on 21 November.

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