Chelsea defender Reece James will reportedly undergo a scan on a knee injury ahead of the club's tour of the United States.
With Mauricio Pochettino having officially started work as head coach earlier this month, the Argentine is eager to only involve players who have a future at Stamford Bridge.
That will see the likes of Hakim Ziyech, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Romelu Lukaku all remain out of contention as they bid to find a new club.
Nevertheless, according to the Evening Standard, Pochettino could be a player short at right-back due to an issue with James.
The report says that the England international claimed 'to have felt pain in his knee' prior to becoming involved in pre-season.
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James was restricted to just 16 appearances in the Premier League last season, a consequence of separate knee and hamstring injuries.
The issue with his knee, sustained in a Champions League fixture with AC Milan, ruled him out for eight weeks and the World Cup, but he suffered another knee problem upon his return in December.
From February onwards, eight appearances came in the top flight before a hamstring injury suffered versus Real Madrid, again in the Champions League, ended his season.
Having not played since then, the hope had been that James would enjoy a seamless transition back into training and senior action, with the trip Stateside offering him a chance to build up his fitness.
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While that could still prove to be the case with the Chelsea medical staff expecting positive news, it may lead to the 23-year-old being held back over the coming weeks.
Malo Gusto will provide competition and cover for James during 2023-24, yet the young Frenchman has also only recently recovered from a hamstring injury, making his return during the closing weeks of last season.
With Cesar Azpilicueta having left for Atletico Madrid, Trevoh Chalobah will be viewed as the next alternative at right-back having deputised there under Frank Lampard.
Chelsea are due to play five matches in the United States before they commence their Premier League campaign with a home clash with Liverpool on August 13.
Darren Plant
