Enzo Maresca has explained why Reece James was replaced at half-time in Chelsea’s victory over Burnley.

James captained the side at Turf Moor in Saturday’s early kick-off but was replaced by Benoit Badilashile at the break with his side leading through Pedro Neto.

The 25-year-old was back out to watch the second-half from the dugout with Enzo Fernandez sealing a 2-0 victory that lifts the Blues to within three points of Premier League leaders Arsenal.

James has been left devastated by a series of major injury problems over the years but managed to stay injury-free for the second-half of last season with the club working hard to manage his fitness.

The skipper has remained fit this term, featuring in all 12 league matches and starting eight of them.

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