Reece James injury latest: Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino issues positive update ahead of Nottingham Forest test with Euro 2024 fast approaching

James has been sidelined since December due to a recurring hamstring injury that required surgery. The 22-year-old last featured for Chelsea in the 3-0 defeat to Everton at Goodison Park, where he was substituted after just 26 minutes. His absence has been felt keenly by Chelsea, especially given his pivotal role in the team's defensive setup, as they are now struggling in seventh spot in the Premier League table.

James' prolonged absence has also impacted his chances of representing England at Euro 2024, with Gareth Southgate keeping a close eye on his recovery progress. However, with just nine appearances so far this season, the full-back's chances of getting a ticket to the flight to Munich appear to be slim.

However, there is positive news on the horizon for James and Chelsea, as Pochettino confirmed that the defender has returned to training and may be available for selection in the upcoming fixture against Forest.

“We need to assess some players. We need to see, maybe he can be available to be in the squad,” Pochettino said.

"The most important thing is he will be there with us. It's a massive boost for any team. Then, we have an amazing relationship, he's an amazing player. It’s not easy, coming from a long-term injury, the most important thing is he can be available and in the squad, five, 10, 15 minutes... half an hour. It’s unlucky that it's only the last week, but it's important to finish with good feelings. And for him, it’ll be amazing to be involved.”

Although James has been cleared from the treatment room, several others are unavailable for selection due to injury. Carney Chukwuemeka, Ben Chilwell, Enzo Fernandez, Wesley Fofana, Romeo Lavia and Robert Sanchez are yet to get fit and are undergoing their respective rehabilitation programmes.

Chelsea are looking at three massive fixtures before they end their season as a perfect run-in could propel them to European football in the next season. They have leapfrogged Manchester United in goal difference onto the seventh spot and are just two behind Newcastle United. If they finish seventh, they are likely to play in the Europa Conference League and if they finish a rung higher, they could well participate in the Europa League - given Manchester City beat United in the FA Cup.