Reece James is a huge doubt for the World Cup with his knee injury 'more serious than first feared'

Chelsea and England defender Reece James is now a major doubt for the World Cup, with his knee injury "more serious than first thought".

James had looked certain to be included in England manager Gareth Southgate's squad for the tournament in Qatar, which begins on November 20.

But the 22-year-old's involvement has been thrown into doubt after he picked up a knee injury in Chelsea's 2-0 win over AC Milan in the Champions League on Tuesday.

James sustained the injury in a collision in the second half and was forced off after bravely attempting to play on for several minutes.

Reports earlier this week claimed that James was optimistic that he would be back in time for the start of the World Cup.

But the Daily Mail claim that knee problem is "more serious than first thought" and that the right-back may require surgery.

It comes as a hammer blow to both Southgate and Chelsea manager Graham Potter.

James suffered the knee injury against AC Milan on Tuesday (Image: Alamy)

James has started six of Chelsea's eight Premier League games this season, including all four under new manager Potter.

He was also expected to start for England at the World Cup, having played the full 90 minutes against Italy and Germany in the recent international break.

He now appears to "have little chance" of being fit for England's opening game of the World Cup against Iran on November 21, according to the report.

The Three Lions also face the United States on November 25 before playing Wales in their final group game on November 29.

James is now a major doubt for the World Cup, which begins on November 20 (Image: Alamy)

To compound England's problems, Manchester City right-back Kyle Walker is also a major doubt for the tournament after undergoing groin surgery.

Earlier this week, James posted a message to his supporters on Instagram, which read: "Fingers crossed it's not a bad one.

"Love for the messages, I appreciate you all."

Who should England play at right-back in the World Cup if James and Walker are missing? Let us know your thoughts.