Frank Lampard delivers injury blow to Chelsea ahead of Man City clash

Chelsea boss Frank Lampard has confirmed Reece James will miss Sunday’s Premier League clash with Manchester City.

Right-back James missed the 1-1 draw with Aston Villa because of a hamstring problem and is still struggling with the knock.

James has suffered with a knee problem recently with Cesar Azpilicueta taking his place against Villa.

He will now miss City’s visit to Stamford Bridge, though Hakim Ziyech could return having featured in training.

Summer signing Ziyech has been out since suffering a hamstring injury during Chelsea's win over Leeds United on December 5.

Lampard said: “He [Ziyech] has trained the last two or three days. Reece James is out with a small hamstring problem.”

City will return to action having had their match with Everton postponed due to positive Covid-19 tests.

Lampard added: “It's very significant for us. They are good opposition that will be there or thereabouts. It is an opportunity to win a game against a competitor.

“At the moment, the game is on. We have had a couple ourselves (positive tests) but not on the playing staff.

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“We are in a bit more protected environment. We are now being tested twice a week which is important and we just go game by game.

“I think safety and security is paramount, trying to keep the nations spirirts up. We enjoy watching our football but safety is important.”

The Blues will be looking to find a winning formula again having lost to Arsenal and drawn with Aston Villa in the festive period.

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Lampard added: “Arsenal was our worst performance of the season and we have to accept that sometimes that can happen.

“Villa had more energy, we had opportunities and should have won the game.

“We need to be quick and disciplined against City. I want to see a lot of speed in our game when we attack.”

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