Chelsea Football Club has received a significant boost with the return of captain Reece James to training.
The 25-year-old defender has been sidelined since November due to a hamstring injury sustained during training. This setback was the latest in a series of hamstring issues that have limited James to just six Premier League appearances throughout 2024.
Manager Enzo Maresca has emphasized a cautious approach to James's reintegration into the squad, stating, "Reece finally will start with us for part of the session, so slowly, slowly, he will be back. That doesn’t mean he is going to be with us on Sunday or next Sunday."
Chelsea is preparing for a midweek fixture against Everton at Goodison Park, where a victory could temporarily elevate them to the top of the Premier League standings. However, Maresca has indicated that James is unlikely to feature in this match, prioritizing the player's long-term fitness over an expedited return.
In addition to James, the squad is managing other injury concerns. Midfielder Romeo Lavia is not expected to be available for the Everton match, and defenders Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile remain out with long-term injuries. The team is also addressing potential January transfer movements, with players like Ben Chilwell and Carney Chukwuemeka reportedly considering moves due to limited playing time.
As Chelsea navigates this busy period, Maresca's focus remains on maintaining the team's momentum while ensuring that returning players like James are fully prepared to contribute effectively upon their return to competitive action.
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