Mauricio Pochettino confirms huge injury boost after Chelsea hit Wrexham 5-0 on his debut

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has confirmed defender Reece James is almost ready to fly to the United States after staying behind because he was unwell.

The defender had a knee scare days before they were flying but after the test, it became clear that he was fine before news broke out again that he was unwell and would not be travelling with the team.

He alongside the unfortunate Wesley Fofana, Armando Broja and Benoit Badiashile had to stay behind due to various reasons but that did not stop the team from bagging five goals against ambitious League Two side Wrexham in their first preseason game.

YoungsterIan Maatsen scored the first two goals before Conor Gallagher added the third, new signing Christopher Nkunku then made it 4-0 before substitute Ben Chilwell wrapped up the game with a delicate finish.

After the game, Pochettino expressed delight and revealed defender Reece James was ready to fly. He said: “ I am happy with all. Always difficult in the first game. 50,000 people or more always this is difficult for them first game pre-season, in the conditions, you can feel it was hot. I am happy.”

On James joining the team, he said: “I think he is better. He is flying soon and he is going to join the team soon.”

A total of nine players made their debut in the game against Wrexham as Pochettino continues a massive rebuild of the squad having taken over a team that finished 12th in the league table.