Enzo Maresca sets target for returning Reece James

Reece James
Photo: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has expressed his delight at Reece James’ triumphant return to Premier League action.

The defender marked his first league appearance in over two months with a crucial free-kick goal that secured a dramatic 2-2 draw against Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Maresca praised James’ resilience and impact on the game. “I am very happy for him, he deserved that after a difficult moment,” he said.

James, who came on as a substitute, stepped up in the dying moments to curl a spectacular free-kick into the net, rescuing a vital point for the Blues.

“It also gave us the point so I am happy for him and I am happy for us,” Maresca continued. “I am so happy for him that he had this moment, and the target for him now is to be fit until the end of the season and for him to help us in the way we want to play.”