Injury Update: Chelsea first XI star expected to make competitive return vs Fulham

Chelsea expect Reece James to return to action against Fulham

According to Absolute Chelsea [via @NizaarKinsella] (h/t Football. London), Chelsea expect English international Reece James to play some part against Fulham next Friday as he makes his return from injury.

The talented Blues right-back is one of the most talented players going around in the Premier League but injuries have really haunted him in recent times. This is his yet another attempt to make a comeback without suffering a relapse.

At his best, James is absolutely unstoppable. Some of the things he does makes you wonder if he actually is a defender. He always loves getting forward and has a great finish.

Chelsea look a far better team when James is fit. The talented young right-back adds so much dynamism to the Blues attack and he is a constant outlet on the right, something that they miss in his absence.

In his absence, Graham Potter has made the likes of Cesar Azpilicueta and Trevoh Chalobah play in that position but neither offer the same kind of attacking impetus that James does.

Considering how badly Chelsea are struggling in the table right now, James’ return could not have come sooner for Potter. However, he will know that the Englishman will have to be managed carefully.

James is one or two long-term injuries away from being called injury-prone. He runs the risk right now of being rushed into action and having such a tag attached to you really makes life difficult as a footballer. Just ask Ousmane Dembele!

If James can come back and stay fit, he can still help Chelsea to find a way up the table in the Premier League. The Blues do not lack a squad, make no mistake. In fact, they actually have a squad that can be split up into two proper first XIs and either could start a game without a drop in quality.

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Let’s see if Potter decides to give minutes for James against Fulham. We must wrap James in cotton wool and take care of him as he looks to gain back his sharpness. Hopefully, this is the last injury for him in a long while.