Chelsea captain Reece James returned to first-team training on Friday following his latest hamstring setback which has sidelined him for more than a month.
James did not complete the full session as the club want to build him back up rather than rushing his rehab, but it is an important step in the 25-year-old’s recovery.
It is welcome news at a time when Chelsea are struggling with defensive injuries, with Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana set to be sidelined until January at least, and Romeo Lavia struggling to be fit to face Everton in the Premier League on Sunday.
James is not expected to be included in any of Chelsea’s match-day squads until after the New Year as they want to ease the skipper towards a healthy condition.
His last appearance was in a 1-1 draw with Arsenal on November 10.
Maresca’s team can move to the top of the Premier League by beating Everton, even if only temporarily as Liverpool then face Tottenham immediately afterwards.
Reece James has returned to training after a month out with another hamstring setback
The 25-year-old has struggled for consistency and fitness at Chelsea over the past two seasons