Reece James, Levi Colwill Return To Training Ahead Of Chelsea Vs Forest Clash

Chelsea have been handed a timely boost with Reece James and Levi Colwill both back in first-team training ahead of the visit of Nottingham Forest.

Interim coach Calum McFarlane confirmed the development on Friday, offering encouragement over the condition of the defensive duo after recent injury setbacks.

Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano relayed McFarlane’s update on 𝕏, quoting him as saying, “Reece is back in training. Levi is back in training. Both looking good. Both are looking promising.”

McFarlane also hinted the pair could be in contention for Monday’s Premier League fixture at Stamford Bridge but stressed caution over their return to action.

“Reece is back in training, and Levi is back in training also,” he said.

“Both are looking good, which is really positive. We’re still a little way out from the game, so we’ll see how they do in the next few training sessions but are looking promising.

“There are still a lot of games still to play, and we don’t want to push too much, so we’re just taking it day by day and, hopefully, they come through okay.

“Levi has had a long injury and we don’t want to push him too much. But both are looking good and potentially they could be in the squad vs Forest, yes.”

James has endured recurring injury problems in recent seasons, while Colwill has spent much of the campaign recovering from a serious knee and ACL issue. The centre-back has also stepped up his rehabilitation with appearances for the club’s Under-21 side as part of his return to full fitness.

McFarlane also praised James’ influence within the squad, highlighting his leadership and impact behind the scenes despite his recent spell on the sidelines.

“Reece has been brilliant from the day I stepped up in January,” he added.

“This time around, he’s injured, so it’s a little bit of a different role, but even though he’s still young, he’s massively experienced.

“He’s won major tournaments, he loves the club, and he cares about the club. He’s driving and pushing standards every day. We have a leadership group here that he’s a massive part of, and he’s been a massive support to myself and all the staff involved on an interim basis.”