Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has heaped praise on club captain Reece James after his return to action last night.
He told Football London that he believes the 23-year-old is one of the best in the world in his position as a full-back.
Despite the 2-0 victory over Blackburn that booked their place in the quarter finals of the EFL Cup, the main story was the players who returned to action off the back on serious injuries.
Benoit Badiashile made his first appearance of the season last night as he returned from an injury that ended his prior campaign a few weeks early.
He marked the return with a goal, a moment that clearly thrilled a number of his teammates.
Club captain James was making his first start since the opening weekend of the season, with him being out since the curtain raiser against Liverpool.
Pochettino praises James
His recovery has seen him suffer a number of setbacks along the way, so getting through an hour seemingly unscathed will be a big boost.
Now, Pochettino has claimed that when on song he is easily one of the best right-backs in the world.
He said: “It’s really important. It’s important that your captain stay fit and can help the team. One of the best full backs in the world. Unlucky he only played 70 minutes against Liverpool and until now didn’t play. Little by little he will get fit and cope with the demand of the games.”
Chelsea fans will be left hoping that he is fit enough to start the next Premier League game against Tottenham on Monday night.
Malo Gusto, who replaced him last night, had heavy bandaging on his knee and may not be fit to feature from the start.
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