Picture Credit: Getty Images

Picture Credit: Getty Images

England football team suffered a big blow ahead of the FIFA World Cup as the defender R eece James got ruled out of the World Cup after sustaining a knee injury. Premier League club confirmed on Saturday that James will out for eight weeks due to a knee injury.

James, who plays as right wing-back for Gareth Southgate side, sustained the injury during Chelsea's 2-0 Champions League win against AC Milan on Tuesday. Notably, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Kyle Walker are also dealing with fitness issues.  

"Following the knee injury sustained in our away match against AC Milan, Reece has received treatment from the Chelsea medical department and visited a specialist this weekend," the Premier League club said in a statement.

"After consultation between all parties, Reece will now undergo a rehabilitation programme and is expected to be out for eight weeks."

James is set to miss Chelsea's next nine games before the World Cup break.

England will begin their World Cup campaign against Iran on November 21.