London “Chelsea” defender Rhys James will be forced to miss the World Cup in Qatar due to an injury.

Rhys JamesPhoto: Adam Davy / PA Images / Profimedia

At the age of 22, Rhys injured his knee during a Champions League game with AC Milan, a match the Londoners won 2-0 at the San Siro.

James will be unavailable for eight weeks, the Stamford Bridge squad have announced.

“After a knee injury, Rhys was treated in the club’s medical department and saw a specialist at the weekend.

Following the examination, Rhys will undergo a rehabilitation program and is expected to be sidelined for eight weeks,” the Chelsea club said in a statement on its official website.

The FIFA World Cup in Qatar will take place from November 20 to December 18, with England drawn in Group B alongside Iran, the USA and Wales.

One of the most desirable midfielders in the world will miss the World Cup in Qatar due to injury