Chelsea wing-back Reece James has provided an update on his hamstring injury with a return to action anticipated in the coming weeks.
James is yet to play for the Blues in 2022 after sustaining a hamstring injury against Brighton at the end of December and, since his absence, Thomas Tuchel's side have suffered in attack.
Chelsea fell 12 points behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race as Pep Guardiola's men beat Brentford 2-0 at the Etihad, while the Club World Cup final approaches for Tuchel and his men.
While James travelled with the squad to the United Arab Emirates he was not registered to play at the tournament, but has been training with his teammates.
The 22-year-old has been one of the club's standout performers this season, scoring four goals in 16 Premier League appearances and providing a further five assists.
After an impressive display against Juventus in November, former Chelsea man Joe Cole piled praise on the attacker.
"I have been banging the drum for Reece James for years. I remember coming back and training with the team after being in America," he said during BT Sport's coverage of the clash.
"I was blown away by his technical ability. Especially for such a big, strong, athletic lad. His touch is velvet, he makes the right pass, takes the right decisions.
"When he gets in front of goal it is like your top, top strikers’ level of composure and technique."
It appears Chelsea fans will not have to wait too long to see James back in action as well.
After the west Londoners beat Al Hilal in the Club World Cup semi-final on Wednesday, James was straight back in training as he chases full fitness.
Taking to Instagram on Thursday, the right shared a photograph of his sweaty face on his story, along with the caption: "Another session. One step closer."
