Reece James, a defender, has resumed training and is well enough to play in Chelsea’s forthcoming trip against Liverpool, which is a huge boost. James’s availability is a big relief for manager Mauricio Pochettino and the team, who have been struggling this season after James missed a significant amount of time due to injury. In addition to bolstering Chelsea’s defense, his return gives their team more depth as they get ready for a pivotal Premier League match.
Chelsea’s Reece James Returns
James, the defender, started just five league games last season due to his history of hamstring issues. Since hurting his hamstring once more during Chelsea’s preseason tour of the US, he has not played. James is accessible. “He’s back ,” Maresca told reporters on Friday. “He worked with us throughout the international break, which is fantastic news, especially for him, as he doesn’t feel good about his injury.
The 24-year-old’s workload would need to be managed by Chelsea, the Italian continued, and limiting him to one game per week might assist address his ongoing injury issues.
“In this moment, I think it can be the solution now. In the future, I don’t know,” Maresca further added. “If we want to build something with him in terms of physicality and physical condition, probably the solution is to allow him to go slowly and to use him once a week and then hopefully in the future, we can use him more during the week.” Maresca also intends to handle Wesley Fofana and Romeo Lavia’s workloads similarly.
Impact of Reece James on Chelsea’s Squad
James’ possible comeback would be a welcome relief for Chelsea’s struggling defense, as Marc Cucurella and Fofana have been suspended following their fifth yellow card of the year.
Although Maresca’s team has scored 16 goals in his first season as manager, one goal less than Manchester City’s league-high 17 goals, they have lost 4-1 at Anfield in January and have not defeated Liverpool in their last five Premier League encounters.
“We are going to approach the game not thinking where we are, but preparing the game in the best way to get points,” he said. “This game will not define where we are and in the event we lose? It’s just a process, it’s just a game. We will do our best.”
Reece’s absence was particularly noticeable during games where the squad found it difficult to stay creative and defensively sound. Chelsea supporters are hoping he can swiftly get back to his best after his return and assist the team win crucial league points.
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