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Mauricio Pochettino has said he had a chat with Reece James after his poor display against Newcastle United a week ago.

James was shown a red card after picking up two yellows against the Magpies.

The fouls that led to the 23-year-old Chelsea captain getting sent off were needless, and he immediately apologised to fans and teammates after the game.

When asked if he had spoken with the right-back, Pochettino told reporters: “Yes, of course. It’s part of the process also. Too many times he was injured but now step by step, he is building. I think he was a little bit tired in the moment when he got the second yellow card.

“And of course, he realizes he is still far away from his best condition, to complete 90 minutes. He is working really hard.

“He feels sorry about the situation because it was tough for him and it was tough for the team. But it is always good when the player takes responsibility.

“He is doing really well. It’s a thing that can happen in football. It’s good when you realize because then you can learn for the future.”

James will not be involved for Chelsea when they face Brighton on Sunday, and will instead, hope to be ready to take on the Manchester United next week.