Chelsea have been handed a major boost after scans revealed Reece James suffered no serious damage during Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Newcastle.
The right-back limped off with 15 minutes remaining at St James Park following an collision with Ciaran Clark.
James, 20, was seen wincing in pain on the ground as he received treatment, prompting fears of another spell on the sidelines for the highly-rated youngster.
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It was initially feared that James may have aggravated his old ankle fracture, which he was forced to have surgery on last summer after the England Under-20 international was stretchered off against Chile at the Toulon Tournament.
However, talkSPORT.com understands that James only suffered some minor bruising to his knee as a result of the heavy landing.
It is unclear at this stage whether he will be fit in time for Tuesday night’s Premier League clash against London rivals Arsenal, but manager Frank Lampard may choose to rest James for that fixture anyway.
The defender is enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with his boyhood club, signing a new five-and-a-half year deal at Stamford Bridge last week.
James, who has been on Chelsea’s books since the age of six, has even earned comparisons with former England and Manchester United midfielder David Beckham for his exceptional crossing ability.
And James, who starred on loan at Championship side Wigan last season, says he is flattered by the comparisons.
“David Beckham is a legend and probably one of the best crossers of the ball there has been in world football,” he told Chelsea’s official website.
“To be mentioned in the same sentence as his crossing is very good for me but he did it for many years and I have to respect what he did.
“I have only done it for a few games. A lot of people have said about it but I need to maintain it and keep on improving.
“If there is a free-kick there and it is for me, I would not put it past me. It is similar skill, not too much difference.”