Reports have claimed that Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino may take a serious risk with his team selection for the Arsenal match tomorrow.
According to the Evening Standard, the Argentinian may make the choice to start club captain Reece James for just the second time this season.
James has been unavailable for the majority of this season after suffering an injury in the first week of the season following the draw against Liverpool.
There had been reports that he had suffered a setback in terms of his recovery during the international break, where it had looked as if he was close to being fit again to lead his side.
However, photos from training this week have shown him back amongst the first team squad, as they all do their preparations for tomorrow’s London derby.
Pochettino kept his cards close to his chest when it came to his pre-match press conference earlier today, although he did admit that they are looking to see if he is available to take part in some capacity tomorrow.
Pochettino considering starting James
Now, it has been reported he is seriously considering going one further and starting the 23-year-old.
There are a number of choices for the manager for who to play on the right of defence tomorrow evening, with Marc Cucurella having played there for the last three games in all competitions.
These have resulted in three consecutive wins, and some impressive performances along the way from a player who is eager to save his Chelsea career.
Malo Gusto will also be back in the manager’s thinking after his suspension has come to an end.
He will be available tomorrow for the first time since defeat at home to Aston Villa.
Ultimately, there will be no one hoping James is fit and ready to start than the player himself, with the opportunity of leading his side out again up for grabs.
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