Chelsea captain Reece James faces an extended spell on the sidelines after undergoing successful knee surgery, with manager Xabi Alonso unable to confirm whether the defender will return before Christmas.

Alonso said the club would not rush James back into action, stressing that his recovery must be handled carefully to ensure the injured knee is in the best possible condition.

“We don’t set timelines, but he will be out for several weeks,” the Chelsea manager said on Friday.

“Before Christmas or after Christmas, time will tell, but things have to be done properly, that he feels right and that knee is in the best possible condition.”

The 26-year-old sustained the injury during training ahead of Chelsea’s 5-1 victory over Bournemouth, which he missed after medical assessments indicated that surgery was necessary.

Chelsea confirmed that the procedure was successful and that James had begun his recovery under the supervision of the club’s medical department at Cobham.

The setback comes as another frustration for the England international, who has endured recurring injury problems in recent seasons.

Alonso expressed disappointment over the captain’s absence but said Chelsea had enough depth in the squad to cope while James works towards his return.

The manager also indicated that the injury was not expected to change the club’s plans for the January transfer window, suggesting Chelsea anticipated having the defender back around that period.

James’ absence leaves Chelsea without one of their key leaders during a demanding stretch of the season. Alonso, however, believes other senior players can help fill the leadership gap while the captain concentrates on his rehabilitation.

Chelsea have declined to set a firm return date, leaving James’ availability for the festive fixtures uncertain as he focuses on making a full recovery.