Chelsea injury update on Reece James, Jamie Gittens and Emmanuel Emegha

According to a report by Evening Standard on Monday October 12, 2026, Chelsea are dealing with fresh injury concerns involving Reece James and Jamie Gittens, while Emmanuel Emegha is edging closer to a return after recovering from a hamstring problem.

James missed Chelsea’s 5-1 victory over Bournemouth after suffering a knee injury during training on the eve of the match. The club captain had been expected to return after recovering from a previous hamstring issue, but head coach Xabi Alonso confirmed that his latest problem would be assessed week by week.

The defender’s return date remains uncertain, although October 24 has been suggested as a possible target.

Gittens is also expected to spend a few weeks on the sidelines after suffering an ankle injury while representing England’s Under-21s during the international break. The winger returned to Chelsea for further assessment after being pictured on crutches and wearing a protective boot.

Alonso confirmed that the injury would keep Gittens out for several weeks, with October 24 listed as a potential return date.

Meanwhile, Emegha has made progress in his recovery from a hamstring injury sustained during pre-season. The Dutch striker has returned to first-team training but was not included in the squad for the Bournemouth game.

His absence could be related to competition for places rather than a fresh injury, with Joao Pedro and Danny Welbeck currently ahead of him in the pecking order.

Chelsea will hope to have all three players available again soon as they prepare for a busy period of Premier League fixtures. However, James and Gittens remain the main concerns, while Emegha’s situation appears more encouraging.

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