- Reece James took the first step back to fitness by training on Friday
- The 25-year-old has not played since the 1-1 draw with Arsenal in November
- Listen now: kick it all off! Do Tottenham managers behave differently from other managers?
Chelsea captain Reese James He returned to first-team training on Friday after his latest hamstring setback which has sidelined him for more than a month.
James didn’t complete the entire session as the club wanted to back him up rather than rush his rehabilitation, but it was an important step in the 25-year-old’s recovery.
It is welcome news as Chelsea struggle with defensive injuries Benoit Badiasile And Wesley Fofana Will be sidelined until at least January, and Romeo Lavia is struggling to get fit Everton in Premier League sunday
James is not expected to be included in Chelsea’s match-day squad until after the New Year as they look to get the captain back to fitness.
His last appearance was a 1-1 draw Arsenal 10 November.
Maresca’s side could beat Everton to top the Premier League, if only temporarily Liverpool Then the face Tottenham immediately after
Reece James has returned to training after a month out with a hamstring setback
The 25-year-old has struggled for consistency and fitness at Chelsea over the past two seasons.
His last appearance this season came in a 1-1 draw against London rivals Arsenal in November
Chelsea are unlikely to make major moves in the January window without securing a number of outgoings.
Ben Chilwell and Carney Chukwuemeka will be among the first players they try to move on loan or permanently.
Maresca said: ‘If they don’t play games, they’re probably thinking of leaving. But then we will see.
“It’s a different situation for every player. So we’re going to see if some of them will knock on my door saying they want to leave, but it depends. We will try to solve it.’
