Reports have claimed that Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino had a long, detailed chat with club captain Reece James during the EFL Cup victory over Blackburn.
According to The Athletic, the manager spoke to the 23-year-old for around 30 seconds after substituting him in the second half of his return to action.
James was back amongst the starters against the lower-league opposition for the first time since the season’s curtain raiser against Liverpool.
Given the fact that the England international has suffered a number of setbacks on his way back to fitness, there was obvious fears among the fanbase that something could go wrong.
However, he looked as if he got through his hour on the pitch unscathed, being replaced by Malo Gusto.
The Frenchman entered the pitch with heavy strapping on his knee, perhaps suggesting he has been nursing an issue in recent weeks.
James had long chat with Pochettino
Neither player were used from the start against Brentford at the weekend. Axel Disasi instead lined up at right-back, although his attacking limitations were a very clear weak spot for the Blues in the 2-0 defeat.
This is another reason why James’ return will have delighted Pochettino in particular. The Argentine clearly has a lot of faith in the 23-year-old after naming him club captain during the pre-season.
It is clear he wanted to find out how James had got on during his hour on the pitch, pulling him aside for an extended chat after replacing him.
It remains to be seen whether the England international will be fit and firing in time to start again on Monday, with the big game against Tottenham on the horizon.
The manager will also be sweating on the fitness of Benoit Baduashile, as he marked his first appearance of the season with a goal this week.
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