Reece James sends 'amazing' message after confirmed Chelsea news

Chelsea captain Reece James has taken to social media to wish the fans a “Merry Christmas” after returning to first-team training.

The 25-year-old has missed Chelsea’s last nine games across all competitions after picking up yet another hamstring issue in training.

James picked up a similar injury on Chelsea’s pre-season tour of the USA, forcing him to miss their first 11 games, making his long-awaited comeback in their 2-1 Premier League defeat to Liverpool.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of their 0-0 draw with Everton, Enzo Maresca confirmed James has returned to first-team training but kept his cards close to his chest.

The Italian said: “Reece finally (on Friday) will start with us for part of the session, so slowly, slowly, he will be back.

“That doesn’t mean he is going to be with us on Sunday (against Everton) or next Sunday. The plan for him is to be with the team for part of the session and from there to try to build the right conditions for him. Then finally he can be back with us.”

Reece James makes timely return to Chelsea training after latest injury setback

The right-back missed most of last season after having surgery on his hamstring in the hope that it would fix his ongoing issues.

James continues to struggle, however, starting three of his four appearances across all competitions so far this season, failing to make a goal contribution across his 241 minutes on the field.

The Chelsea captain took to Instagram to wish the fans a merry Christmas, saying “Merry Christmas. I hope you all had an amazing day with your loved ones. Sending peace, love, and good health.”

Chelsea host West London rivals Fulham on Boxing Day (December 26) although it may be too early for James to make his playing return.

Maresca’s side will then travel to Ipswich Town four days later as they seek to remain within touching distance of Premier League leaders Liverpool.

In other news, ‘Mykhailo Mudryk facing four-year ban’ in devastating Chelsea update.

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