Following a temporary layoff with injury, Chelsea captain Reece James and midfielder Romeo Lavia returned to action in a commanding 5-0 FA Cup victory over Morecambe at Stamford Bridge, much to the delight of fans and head coach Enzo Maresca.
Both players made their first appearances after extended injury spells, starting the game and delivering solid performances during their 45-minute stints on the pitch.
Their appearances were carefully managed, with Malo Gusto replacing James and Marc Cucurella coming on for Lavia at halftime, as part of a pre-planned strategy to ease the duo back into action.
Speaking after the game, Maresca expressed his pleasure at having James and Lavia back in the squad.
“It was great to see both of them start the game, for sure,” Maresca said. “For Reece and for Romeo, it was just to protect them. The idea was for them to play only 45 minutes. Hopefully, we can start from there, build their physical condition, and have them with us for the rest of the season.”
The head coach emphasized the importance of patience in managing James’ return, considering the captain’s injury history.
“We need to be a little bit more careful, especially with Reece,” he added. “The good thing is they both finished well with no problems. Hopefully, we can help them build the right condition.”
Chelsea’s victory over the League Two side featured braces from Tosin and Joao Felix, along with a goal from Christopher Nkunku.
The dominant performance highlighted the team’s depth and attacking firepower, with James and Lavia’s contributions in the first half providing a glimpse of what they could bring to the remainder of the season.
Maresca also provided an update on Noni Madueke’s absence, confirming it was due to illness.
“Noni was ill on Friday,” Maresca explained. “He didn’t finish the session because he was unwell, and that is why he wasn’t involved.”
