Reece James, Kante, Fofana: Chelsea injury news and return dates for Aston Villa

Chelsea news: The Blues are back in action as they face Aston Villa in the Premier League

With that said, here's a look at the latest injury news and return dates for the Blues as they look to start a winning run until the end of the season.

What Potter has said: "Christian Pulisic is the only one, he had a heavy cold returning from international duty so he's one we've just got to check on."

Injury: Illness

Expected return date: Uknown

What Potter has said: "Kai was fever but he's recovered now and has trained the last couple of days."

Injury: Illness

Expected return date: Aston Villa (H) - April 1

He came on in Thursday night's win over Italy, but only for the remaining five minutes after replacing Bukayo Saka. England released the following statement on James: "Reece James has withdrawn from the England squad and will not feature against Ukraine on Sunday. The full-back has returned to Chelsea for an assessment on an ongoing issue."

However, it appears his withdrawal may have simply been a precaution after he was pictured during training on Tuesday, suggesting a return could be imminent.

What Potter has said: "Reece as well, he's had the last two training sessions with us so providing there's no reaction, he should be available."

Injury: Hamstring

Expected return date: Aston Villa (H) - April 1

What Potter said: "N'Golo's due to carry on training Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday with potentially a game to give him some minutes."

Injury: Hamstring

Expected return date: Aston Villa (H) - April 1

However, despite originally being called up, Mount also had to pull out of Gareth Southgate's England squad and it appears as though a return in the starting side against Villa is too soon, but can still feature.

What Potter said: "Mason has trained and is available, probably not from the start but in the squad."

Injury: Lower abdomen

Expected return date: Aston Villa (H) - April 1

What Potter has said: "Raheem is coming back. He will miss the game, think he's got more chance for Tuesday. He was close."

Injury: Hamstring

Expected return date: Liverpool (H) - April 4

Injury: Finger

Expected return date: Aston Villa (H) - April 1

Fofana was later spotted in the dugout at Stamford Bridge with an ice pack on his right thigh, leaving some supporters to fear the worst. As such, he remained in England in an effort to make a return against Aston Villa, but that doesn't seem possible, with a return against Liverpool more likely.

What Potter has said: "Wesley is going to miss the game because his hamstring is still a little bit tight, there's a chance for Tuesday with him."

Injury: Hamstring

Expected return date: Liverpool (H) - April 4

What Potter said: "Well, Thiago and Azpi are still away."

Injury: Concussion

Expected return date: Unknown

What Potter said: "Well, Thiago and Azpi are still away."

Injury: Knee

Expected return date: April

He looked to be in considerable pain and was seen to be clutching his leg as he was tended to by medical staff. The Albania international had no history of knee injuries and his injury is a major blow.

What Potter said: ''It was just an unfortunate action. He got caught up with their player and the ground. It doesn’t look positive at the moment but it’s too early to say. Fingers crossed but it is an awkward one.''

Injury: Knee

Expected return date: Summer 2023