Thomas Tuchel would be having a beaming smile on his face as Reece James is back in training. The full back suffered an injury before the international break, putting his availability for Chelsea’s crucial games in doubt. However, England boss Gareth Southgate still named Reece in his squad for the Three Lions’ friendlies. But the right-back pulled out of the team, and returned to Chelsea for his recovery. While the news has delighted the Chelsea manager, two more unexpected players joined Reece in the training.
Chelsea enter the final and most important stage of their season post this international break. The Blues are yet to lock the third place in the league, while fighting for two trophies in the FA Cup and the Champions League. Tuchel will surely want a fully fit squad at his disposal, and could just achieve the same.
Chelsea welcome two more players, however earlier than expected
Chelsea received encouraging signs with two more players returning while Reece James recovered from his muscle injury. Jorginho and Callum Hudson-Odoi were the surprise arrivals at Cobham. However, Jorginho returned on the back of a heartbreak with national team. Italy were eliminated from the play-offs of World Cup qualifiers by North Macedonia. The elimination rocked the Italians as they missed out on a second consecutive World Cup tournament. As a result, Jorginho was came back earlier than expected.
Callum Hudson-Odoi marked his presence as well. The winger was out since the start of this month due to Achilles tendon problems. Hudson-Odoi missed a total of 6 games for the Blues as he last featured against Luton Town in the Fa Cup. However, he was spotted training with the other Chelsea players as well.
Barring Jorginho’s case, Reece James’ and Hudson-Odoi’s return from injury is a massive boost to Chelsea. Though their availability for the weekend’s premier league game against Brentford is a doubt, they should be ready for the Champions League. Chelsea face record winners Real Madrid in the quarter-finals and would need all their players for boasting a solid squad depth. The Blues are looking to defend their title and are termed as favourites going in the tie as well.
Reece James’ absence for Chelsea has been felt massively as is evident from their performances. The right flank almost produced nothing for the Blues in the attack since losing James. His replacement, Cesar Azpilicueta has had only 3 assists to offer in Reece’s absence. On the other hand, Reece James managed double the assists of Azpilicueta and 5 goals as well in mere 17 appearances. In his last game before sustaining this injury, James scored and provided an assist against Burnley.
Thomas Tuchel will almost have all of his players available when Chelsea host Real Madrid next week. A huge relief as this would be the first time the manager will enjoy a fully fit squad at his disposal.
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