Chelsea's decision over Reece James' anticipated surgery has been delayed

Chelsea's decision over Reece James' anticipated surgery on a hamstring injury has been delayed amid reservations over whether the procedure is necessary.

There was due to be a definitive verdict over whether James requires an operation to cure his long-term hamstring problems on Monday - but that has now been pushed back.

James was undergoing further assessment on Wednesday ahead of a final decision over the course of action they'll take towards his recovery.

There is a feeling that, given his history of hamstring problems, that James would benefit from an operation to finally help him overcome the persistent injury.

However, Mail Sport understands James is reluctant to rush into surgery and all parties have sought further advice on whether he should go under the knife.

Avoiding the procedure would see James miss up to four months of the season. Surgery can take from three to six months recovery time.

The defender has a history of hamstring problems, with that in mind there is an understanding his recovery will not be straight forward.

James limped off with the muscle problem in the 2-0 loss at Everton earlier this month.

The latest setback comes after James missed two months of the season with a hamstring injury suffered in the opening game against Liverpool.

Regardless of whether James goes under the knife, he will now miss the majority of the season in news that arrives as a blow to Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino and England boss Gareth Southgate.

James ruled himself out of contention for Southgate's last squad as he chose to focus on his fitness.

Southgate, after revealing James decision, warned there was not much time to impress before the European Championships next summer.

Having missed the World Cup in Qatar through