Reece James teases his return to Chelsea squad ahead of the Blues trip to the City Ground to take on Nottingham Forest

It has been a difficult season for Reece James even though it started on a high as he was named Chelsea club captain.

But as has been the case in the past, the right back has seen his campaign plagued by injury.

Since the start of the 2020-21 season the England defender has missed a total of 84 games as injuries continue to blight his career.

His lack of availability for club has seemingly had an impact on his international career as Gareth Southgate told the Chelsea captain that he needs improve his ‘physical resistance’ if he is to make it back into the squad.

It is not the first time his bad luck with injury has caused him issues as he tries to get into the Englad squad, missing out on the 2022 World Cup just over 18 months ago.

The Chelsea captain has been back in training and could make his return to the squad against Nottingham Forest

But it seems as though James has finally overcome his latest set back and is ready to return to action for the Blues.

On X, formerly known as Twitter the 24-year-old posted simply the words ‘See you at 5:30.’

It comes just a day after Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino delivered a positive update on the fitness of his squad.

‘We need to assess today some players that maybe can be involved tomorrow in the game,’ he said.

‘I am happy because we are going to be in the last week of the season and nearly all the players will be fit to be available. It is a good end and to see the future more optimistic.

‘We need to see today but maybe he can be available to be in the squad,’ Pochettino added. ‘The most important thing is that he is going to be there with us.

It has been a difficult season for James who has only managed eight appearances this season

‘Always to have your captain is a massive boost for any team. We have an amazing relationship and of course he is an amazing player.

‘I know it is not easy always when you come from a long-term injury. The most important thing is that he can be available and can be part of the squad.

‘Then if he can play five, 10, 15, 20 or 30 minutes it will be amazing.

‘Of course it’s unlucky that it’s only in the last week and we have three games left, but it’s important to finish with good feelings and for him it is going to be amazing to be involved.’