Chelsea captain Reece James makes training return in major boost for Mauricio Pochettino

Chelsea training ground in Cobham was treated to a surprise boost after captain Reece James took to the grass for the first time in months since his hamstring surgery. 

It is not yet known when he will be fully fit to train with the squad but the fact that he's back running is a massive lift to the team as they prepare for their crunch Premier League game against Manchester City. 

James has not featured in any of Chelsea’s FA Cup matches this term and has only featured once in the Carabao Cup ahead of the final on February 25. 

He is not going to be ready for this weekend's game against City and will not be ready for the League Cup final against Liverpool in 10 days, but the fact that he is back on the pitch has delighted many Chelsea fans.

The Blues have remained inconsistent since his injury, capable of pulling off a massive win but also with the tendency to switch off and lose when the expectations are off the roof. Manager Pochettino has been battling injuries to key players all season with Trevoh Chalobah making the squad only for the first time this campaign at Selhurst.

But despite the injuries and inconsistency Chelsea have recorded 10 wins, four draws and 10 defeats from 24 Premier League games, they are in 10th place in the league, but securing European football for next season remains a possibility for the Blues as they are only two points behind Newcastle United in seventh, and seven points adrift of Manchester United in sixth.