Chelsea captain Reece James has admitted he still has some “rust” to remove before he reaches full match fitness, despite making his return to action in the Blues’ final pre-season friendly.
James started as Chelsea defeated Real Sociedad 3-1 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, marking an important step towards the new Premier League campaign.
The England international had been handed an extended break after representing his country at the World Cup in North America, returning to Chelsea training only last week.
With Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Fulham now less than a week away, James knows the clock is ticking.
James was named in the starting XI against Real Sociedad alongside fellow England international and new signing Morgan Rogers.
Both players only returned to training last week after their World Cup involvement, meaning Saturday’s match represented their first serious test ahead of the new campaign.
James admitted the short turnaround has made preparations challenging, but he was pleased to get valuable minutes under his belt.
“The break’s been pretty short so I felt pretty good out there,” he said. “The conditions were tough, it was super hot, but I’m feeling good.
“It’s still early, there was a bit of rust still to come off, but it was a good step.
“It was a short break, probably shorter than everyone would have liked, but I’m delighted to be back and the new season’s going to be getting under way pretty soon.”
The Chelsea captain’s assessment will be closely watched by new head coach Xabi Alonso, who now has his full squad available for the first time since taking charge.
James’ return has also been welcomed by Alonso, who recently highlighted the importance of having the Chelsea skipper back around the training ground.
The new manager has spent the early stages of his tenure working with a squad that was missing several international stars.
Now, with James back and the majority of the squad available, Alonso can begin putting his preferred ideas into practice.
James was clearly encouraged by the manager’s comments.
“It means a lot coming from a manager and an ex-player of his calibre,” James said. “Hopefully I can give my all for him and deliver when I’m needed most.”
That relationship could become one of the defining elements of Chelsea’s new era.
James’ leadership will be particularly important as Alonso attempts to establish his footballing philosophy and build a team capable of challenging at the top end of the Premier League.
Saturday’s victory also offered Chelsea supporters their first opportunity to see several new arrivals at Stamford Bridge.
Maxence Lacroix and Marco Palestra started the match, while Pep Chavarria was introduced during the second half.
Rogers also made his first appearance at the stadium since completing his move to Chelsea.
James believes the newcomers are already settling into the group despite having spent only a short period with their new teammates.
“[The squad] have just come off the pre-season tour which was a lot of travelling, a lot of games, but from what I’ve seen everyone’s settled in well and I’m delighted with the group.
“It’s only been four or five days, it’s been super short but I’m enjoying it very much so far and that’s the same for the boys.”
The 3-1 victory over Real Sociedad provided Chelsea with a positive final rehearsal, but James knows the Premier League will demand much more.
The Blues’ preparations have been disrupted by the World Cup, while several new players are still adapting to their surroundings and Alonso’s tactical demands.
For James, the priority now is to turn those remaining days of preparation into sharpness before Chelsea travel to face Fulham next Monday.
The captain has returned, but he knows there is still work to do. The rust is coming off. The Premier League is coming fast. Chelsea must be ready.
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