Reece James returns fit, £54m star scores for country and triple injury boost – Enzo Maresca’s perfect international break

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Chelsea finished last week in disappointing fashion, losing 1-0 against London rivals Arsenal.

Enzo Maresca will now be hoping for the next couple of weeks to go much smoother.

Chelsea will not be playing because of the international break, but if a few things happen before their game against Tottenham Hotspur at the start of April, Maresca could rediscover his smile after that disappointing defeat to Arsenal.

With that in mind, The Chelsea Chronicle has taken a look at what would be the perfect international break for the Italian.

• READ MORE: Three reasons why Chelsea fans can be positive about Arsenal defeat, including ‘brilliant’ player’s shift

Chelsea captain Reece James does not pick up injury with England squad

Reece James has received his first England call-up since 2023, which will delight the defender.

Chelsea fans, on the other hand, will be very worried, given his injury record. Maresca may also have some concerns as manager.

James has performed well since recovering from a hamstring issue, so Maresca will be desperate for him not to return to Cobham with any new problems.

Pedro Neto scores for Portugal

Again, Chelsea’s next Premier League fixture is against Tottenham, which is another big game.

Pedro Neto could start, especially if Noni Madueke and Cole Palmer are not fit enough to. Considering that, a goal for Portugal against Denmark could give the winger a nice little confidence boost going into his side’s upcoming London derby.

Neto cost Chelsea £54m after joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers last summer. For some Blues supporters, scoring against their fierce rivals would justify that price tag alone.

Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke and Nicolas Jackson all return to training

On the subject of Palmer and Madueke, the two England internationals and Nicolas Jackson all returning to training before the Tottenham game would be a beautiful scene for Maresca.

Chelsea did not pose a real threat to Arsenal over the weekend, registering just two shots on target. It would have been a much different story had Palmer, Madueke and Jackson all been available.

It may be wishful thinking, but if Chelsea see the trio return this month, then it could help Maresca to have the perfect international break.