Key first-team star joins up with Chelsea pre-season squad after recovering from illness

English international Reece James joins Chelsea in the USA for pre-season games

According to Football.London, Reece James has finally joined up with the Chelsea squad in the USA for pre-season games after the player previously stayed in London as a precautionary measure.

The right-back had an illness that forced him to stay back in Cobham, but the 23-year-old will now be available for the rest of the pre-season matches. This is good news for the Blues who are already dealing with the extended absence of Wesley Fofana.

Chelsea’s first preseason game against Wrexham saw them score five goals against the Welsh side, with Christopher Nkunku, Ben Chilwell, Ian Maatsen, and Conor Gallagher on the scoresheet. With James now back in the mix, the forwards can expect better service.

James’s 2022-23 season was ruined by frequent injuries, as the England International was sidelined for the majority of the season with a knee injury. The 23-year-old had a knee scan earlier on during a training session in Cobham, but reports indicated there was no cause for concern.

However, the club still left some players at Cobham, like Benoit Badiashile and Armando Broja, who have been told to remain in London, while Wesley Fofana has ruptured his ACL, which could keep him out for the entire next season.

James has been one of Chelsea’s best players since he was promoted to the senior team, and his addition to the team for pre-season games will be a great boost. Pochettino will be content to have him back as they face Brighton & Hove Albion this weekend.

The 23-year-old will be looking to rebound next season and restore his reputation as arguably the best right-back in the league. A fully fit James is a difficult player to keep quiet and having him in full swing will be a massive asset for Pochettino.

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Due to an ACL injury, Fofana may miss the upcoming season for the Blues, and the team is already searching for a successor. On August 13, Chelsea will take on Liverpool in their season opener, and manager Mauricio Pochettino will be looking to field a strong team. James will certainly feature if he is fitness.