Reece James issues Chelsea injury update ahead of Aston Villa clash after 'tough' weeks

Reece James is a step closer to returning to Chelsea first team action but will remain cautious over his comeback to ensure he does not suffer problems later in the season. The Chelsea captain picked up an injury following the Blues' first match of the season against Liverpool and has been unavailable since.

Malo Gusto has deputised well at right-back in that time, while Ben Chilwell and Conor Gallagher have worn the captain's armband in his abence. The 23-year-old England international had admitted it has personally been a frustrating period to be missing playing time in a difficult spell for the west London side.

James said: «It's been tough few weeks for me since suffering an injury after the first game. My job is to play football and I want to be able to help the team, but I can't do that at the moment, so right now my job is to get fit as quickly and as safely as possible.

»I want to get back out there soon, but it's also important to make sure that it's the right moment, so that when I do come back, I'm in a position to continue the season without any problems later on. I'm another stage closer to returning now I've been on the grass for the last couple of weeks and I'm working hard right now to come back, put my injury problems to bed and help the team as much as I can."

The Cobham product noted that he would be present at Stamford Bridge once again, to see his team take on Aston Villa in search of their second Premier League win of the season. James believes the Blues will turn things around.

He added: «I'll be supporting them from the stands again today and even if it is super-frustrating to go to games and not be involved on the pitch, it's still important to be around the team as much as possible It's always good