Didier Drogba sends Reece James four-word message as Chelsea legend makes feelings clear

Didier Drogba has congratulated Reece James following his return from injury at the weekend. The 24-year-old defender led Chelsea to a 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on Saturday afternoon, delivering the match-winning assist in the dying embers of the game.

James suffered a hamstring injury at the start of the Premier League season, missing seven of the Blues’ opening eight games. He was eventually reintroduced towards the end of October, captaining Chelsea to a 4-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur and a 4-4 draw against Manchester City.

Then, in December, he suffered a reoccurrence of his ongoing muscle issue. The England international eventually opted for surgery in a bid to finally clear himself of any more hamstring problems, ruling himself out for a further five months.

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While Malo Gusto impressed in his absence, Drogba was delighted to see James back in action. The Cobham graduate replaced Conor Gallagher in the second half of the Forest clash as he looks to build his match fitness.

After the game, James marked the victory with a celebratory post on Instagram. He wrote: “Wow… soooo good to be back out there with my brothers, I missed that feeling! enjoy your weekend.”

The England international racked up over half a million likes, with family, friends, colleagues old and new all flocking to the comment section to show their support. Drogba reposted James’ post to his personal story, with the caption: “The captain is back [blue heart and praying emoji].”

Speaking to reporters after the game, Pochettino was quizzed on James’ performance. The Blues boss said: “Massive. It’s unlucky there are only two games ahead and it’s one week.

“It is important for him to recover for his feelings and he is such an important player for us. He is our captain. We all love him. Yes, important, and to see whether he will be fit and have a chance of making the Euros.”

Then, when asked if he thinks James could make the England squad for the European Championships this summer, Pochettino added: “We have one more week to work. He is doing well in the training sessions.

“After four or five months, he’s not the same to train and compete but if he has the possibility to do that in the next two games, and if his coach in the national team believes he can cope with the competition. I think he will be ready.”