While Chelsea were beaten by Liverpool at Anfield yesterday, there were a number of positives to report on the injury front.

Enzo Maresca was able to name club captain Reece James in his starting side for the first time this season, with him completing just under an hour in the 2-1 defeat.

Romeo Lavia was also a starter for the first time since the season opener against Manchester City, impressing supporters in the process.

The England international's club teammates will know more than anyone just how hard the last few seasons will have been for him.

Thiago Silva delighted at Reece James Chelsea return Thiago Silva will have likely been instrumental for his support when he was recovering in the last few campaigns, and was one of those who was delighted to see his former teammate back on the pitch.

The Brazilian commented on Chelsea's official Instagram page three blue hearts, showing his affection as James finally gets towards the end of another long road of recovering.

Maresca has already hinted that he will be on a similar plan from here to that of Wesley Fofana and Lavia, who are being restricted to just one game a week as they regain match fitness.

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Malo Gusto deputising for James well It is the benefit of having a squad with the plethora of quality that Chelsea have that they can now afford this luxury. This has certainly not always been the case.

Malo Gusto has impressed greatly in the absence of the club captain in recent months, and it would feel harsh for him to drop out of the starting side based on his performances of late.

Nevertheless, when fit there are few as good as James, and he will be a real bonus for Chelsea if he can maintain his fitness for the next few months.

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