James limped off in the San Siro on Tuesday evening and Potter provided an update on the right-back at his press conference at Cobham this afternoon, as well as giving the latest on N’Golo Kante and Wesley Fofana.

Aston Villa vs Chelsea Reece James injury update

The first question regarded James following emerging reports he could miss the World Cup, which starts on November 20.

‘He’s due to see a specialist over the weekend, so until we get that information there’s not too much else I can add unfortunately,’ said Potter.

‘The rest would be speculation. We will wait and see. We need to check the discomfort and see a specialist.

‘Yesterday he felt not too bad, but until you get these things checked you never know. We will wait and see. There’s no point looking into the doomsday scenario yet, we need to check and then go forward.’

Aston Villa vs Chelsea N’Golo Kante injury update

Some reports in France have said Kante could miss the World Cup after the setback he suffered in his recovery from a hamstring injury.

‘He’s due to see a consultant at the weekend. It’s a setback, it’s not good news, but I can’t give you anything more at this stage.

‘Historically there are things which have happened which is a concern, so we need to get to the bottom of that,’ added Potter of Kante’s injury record.

‘It’s a setback at this stage of this rehab which is worrying, but all we can do is get the right diagnosis, get the right consultation, and try and help him get back to full fitness and enjoying his football.’

Aston Villa vs Chelsea Wesley Fofana injury update

The final question on team news regarded the prognosis for Fofana, who Potter had previously confirmed would be out for a number of weeks.

‘He’s progressing where he was.

‘I don’t think we will see him before the World Cup in terms of playing for Chelsea.’

Putting an arm around players

With the World Cup being held mid-season for the first time, the prospect of picking up an injury and missing the showpiece tournament is increased.

Offering support in such situations would be important, stressed Potter, who has a degree in emotional intelligence.

‘If anything happens like that, they’re going to be disappointed, they’re human beings. They want to go, but they also know it’s a profession where things can happen. They’re competing at the highest level, you can’t avoid these things sometimes.

‘Then it’s about dealing with the adversity, the frustration, the upset, and of course we help them with that.’

Aston Villa vs Chelsea suspension

There are no suspensions. Kai Havertz is two yellow cards away from a suspension.

Aston Villa vs Chelsea injury list

Hakim Ziyech didn't travel to Milan because of illness.

Aston Villa will be without Lucas Digne, Diego Carlos, Jed Steer, Ludwig Augustinsson, and Boubacar Kamara. Leon Bailey is expected to return after a minor muscle injury.

• Aston Villa vs Chelsea: Pre-Match Briefing

• Aston Villa vs Chelsea match centre