Chelsea have received a massive injury boost as captain Reece James was pictured in first-team training today after recovering from a hamstring injury. He has yet to play a competitive match for the Blues this season.
The England international initially played in most of Chelsea's pre-season games and looked like a crucial piece for new manager Enzo Maresca.
The influential right-back missed around half of Chelsea's games last term through injury but recovered towards the end of the campaign.
However, James sustained another hamstring issue in early August, ruling him out for several weeks.
The 24-year-old has been back on the grass for some time, but he just joined the team training with the players who are not with their countries during the international break.
Back in team training. pic.twitter.com/kMBkAJc3eg
- Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) October 14, 2024
pic.twitter.com/Sek5GpeoYP
- Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) October 14, 2024
James will likely not be fit for this Sunday's blockbuster clash with league leaders Liverpool, with France youth international Malo Gusto expected to start in his stead.
James, one of Chelsea's highest earners at PS250,000 per week (spotrac), has been a big miss for the west Londoners. Gusto is a talented defender and hasn't let Chelsea fans miss their captain too much, but the Englishman is a step ahead.
The Blues hope James can stay fit this time around to help their bid for one of the Premier League top four spots. He is one of the best players on the roster and needs to be strutting his stuff on the pitch.
Chelsea have a few concerns ahead of the Liverpool game with Marc Cucurella and Wesley Fofana suspended. Renato Veiga and Tosin Adarabioyo could be handed starts at Anfield.