How Chelsea fans reacted to Reece James making his first start of the season against Liverpool

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There were a couple of surprises when Chelsea’s team to play Liverpool was announced on Sunday.

One was the inclusion of captain Reece James. The right-back has only just returned from an injury, but that did not stop Enzo Maresca from starting him at Anfield.

James came off in the second half, with Maresca never planning to use him for the whole 90 minutes. The same was also the case with Romeo Lavia, who has also had injury problems this season.

The midfielder did not look rusty at all, though. Lavia left Chelsea fans awestruck with his display.

• READ MORE: Darren Bent discusses whether Thomas Tuchel will recall Reece James for England

Chelsea fans glad to have Reece James back

Lavia was not the only player who impressed Chelsea fans on the day with his performance.

They also enjoyed James’ showing before it and Lavia’s came to an end in the second half.

@Santoss_CFC said: “Very happy with the Reece James I saw yesterday. Crosses, long balls, calming pressure with his ball controlling ability. We’ve missed him.”

@SirJerry_cfc wrote: “That was a captain’s performance from Reece James after being out for such a long time. Glad to have you back.”

And finally, @Mohitra53639147 said: “Reece James is just different class.”

Former USA international Janusz Michallik thought Maresca was brave to use James from the start against Liverpool. Thankfully for the 44-year-old, it looks like his captain came away from the game unscathed.

Will Reece James start against Newcastle United?

Chelsea’s next game in the Premier League is against Newcastle United. Before then, they face Panathinaikos in the Conference League.

You can easily imagine Malo Gusto starting at right-back in that match, while James starts the following fixture versus Newcastle.

Ultimately, if the 24-year-old does not pick up any injury problems at Cobham this week, then Maresca has no reason to leave him out of the team for the Magpies’ visit to Stamford Bridge.

James is Chelsea’s captain and one of the best full-backs in the Premier League when fully fit. Maresca will want to use him whenever he can.

Of course, because of his injury record, the Chelsea manager has to be very careful with the England international. Playing almost an hour against Liverpool, though, was a really encouraging sign.