James has been sidelined since late October with a calf injury and has only made four appearances in all competitions this season. However, Bompastor said our No.10 has been undertaking full training this week and could return when our FA Cup campaign begins.

Our head coach also provided updates on winger Johanna Rytting Kaneryd, who missed our final match of 2024 against Real Madrid due to a calf injury, and long-term absentees Sam Kerr and Mia Fishel.

‘LJ is back with the squad,' Bompastor told the media. 'She is fully training with us and if nothing happens in tomorrow’s session, she will be in the squad for Sunday. Johanna isn’t fit to be in the squad but is really close to the group.

’Sam and Mia were with us in Portugal and they are still in their own process. They are not fully training with whole teams, just some bits with the team. They are progressing well but it’s not time to talk about them returning to full training sessions.’

Having missed a large portion of the season because of injury, it is not only Bompastor who is looking forward to James' return to action. Our head coach shared how the England international is raring to play in Chelsea blue once again.

‘As a coach, you always want to have all your squad available,' our head coach added. 'LJ is a player who has a lot of qualities and talent. In possession of the ball she is one of the best in the world. LJ is a creative player so most people enjoying football watch these players.

‘She is dying for that [to get back playing]. She loves football, so passionate, and when she’s not on the pitch she is so sad. It’s been a long time, but she’s been working hard and had the right mentality.’