Sam Kerr and Lauren James out until 2025 – Sonia Bompastor

Chelsea boss Sonia Bompastor says attackers Lauren James and Sam Kerr will not return to action before the end of the year.

James, 23, who has missed Chelsea’s last eight games and four England fixtures with a calf issue, is unlikely to return before 2025 as was initially hoped.

“LJ is progressing really well with her rehab. I think it will be difficult to see her before the end of the year,” Bompastor said ahead of Chelsea’s WSL meeting with Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.

“We still have a small hope on that, so we’ll see. But I’m more expecting her being able to play with us in January.

“She’s in a good position mentally, physically progressing. I saw her on the pitch, she is starting to run, she has started to touch the ball. So it’s a good signal and she will be fresh in January for sure.”

Kerr, 31, suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in January and it was hoped she would play again before 2025.

“We are looking to have her back with us in February, March, not before that,” Bompastor said of the Australian striker.

“She didn’t start yet to train, even being modified with the group, so she’s still on her individual process rehab and I think it will take at least two or three more months for her to be fit enough to be with the squad.”

After Brighton, Chelsea will face Dutch side Twente and Real Madrid either side of a WSL trip to Leicester before the winter break.

Bompastor’s side are five points clear at the top of the WSL table after starting the season with eight straight wins and have qualified for the quarter-finals of the Champions League with two group games left to play.