CHELSEA captain Reece James has returned to full training in a huge boost for the Blues and potentially England manager Gareth Southgate ahead of Euro 2024.
James, 24, hasn’t played since injuring his hamstring and needing surgery in December.
Chelsea are away at Nottingham Forest on Saturday and trail Newcastle United in sixth by two points.
Pochettino confirmed James would be in the match-day squad but doesn’t yet know if he can start.
“The most important thing is Reece James is going to be there for us,” Pochettino said in his pre-match press conference on Friday. “Then because we have an amazing relationship and of course he is an amazing player.
“It is not easy when you come back from a long-term injury. The most important thing is he can be available and be part of the squad.
“It is important to finish [the season] with good feelings.”
Midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu has also returned after not playing since December.
Pochettino added he was “happy” with the clearing injury list but admitted it had been one of the season’s disappointments that so much of the squad have been unavailable.
“This is the last week of the season and nearly all the players will be fit and available – it’s a good time.
“It’s good to see the future and be more optimistic.”
“Disappointed [the season is close to ending as they return], as I think to increase the level and improve everyday we need to asses why we need to do better and improve.
“I think it’s a good challenge for next season – we need to increase the availability of the players.”
