Reece James will not play again until 2025 as the Chelsea captain is ruled out with his latest injury

Reece James will be sidelined for at least a month and is unlikely to return until the New Year, talkSPORT understands.

He follows a scan this week to confirm the severity of a new hamstring injury.

Chelsea I don't want to pressure James with a specific return timeline. The club is currently working with specialists and doing everything possible to support the recovery of its captain.

The news is a blow to James's hopes of finding a level of continuity after two injury-ravaged years.

The defender appeared to have overcome his injury problems as he returned to the starting line-up for Chelsea's clash at Anfield on October 20.

But James lasted only four games before suffering his latest setback.

Chelsea's continued support extends beyond James' physical difficulties with the club and is also aware of the mental battle he faces as he deals with his latest injury.

The west London club are keen to ensure James is given the chance to return to full fitness without the added pressure of a spell, hoping to end his injury nightmare.

The England international was said to be devastated by his latest setback, considering he has only played 654 minutes of football since being handed the Chelsea captaincy 15 months ago.

The 24-year-old has openly shared his feelings on social media in a bid to keep fans informed about his recovery.

Following hamstring surgery almost 12 months ago, James wrote on Instagram: “Since this injury I have received a lot of support, but a lot more hate and negativity. Believe me, I don't want to get injured, I'm happier when I play football.

“Thanks to the understanding of the people who support me despite the ups and downs, this is a great help.”

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And last week, James took to social media again to thank fans for their patience and understanding in the face of his current difficult situation.

He said: “This message is for the people who understand and respect what I'm going through… I appreciate you so much, your support and kind words are beyond what you could ever imagine.

“And just to mention myself… I'm fine, I've been better and I've also been worse. Another challenge ahead accepted. In the end I will emerge victorious. Against all odds.

“Finally, I would like to talk about the upcoming festive period, these times are difficult for everyone! I wish you all a happy and peaceful Christmas season.”

James will know that his succession of injuries could have major long-term ramifications for him at Chelsea and internationally with England, unless he is able to overcome his difficulties.

Former Watford striker Troy Deeney He recently warned James that he could see his career following the same path as Jack Wilshere who retired at the age of 30, after a series of injury problems.

“I think he has the last chance to be at Chelsea,” Deeney told talkSPORT. “Where he goes after that is a massive struggle because he could end up, on a smaller scale, in the Jack Wilshere mould, where he has to go to Bournemouth on a pay-per-play contract.

“In two years' time he could be out of the game and it's a shame because he's clearly talented and a very good player, but you have to be fit and available or there's no point in having all that talent.”

James will miss Chelsea's next nine games through injury, including Sunday's visit to Aston Villa and next weekend's trip to Tottenham.