Enzo Maresca deal with Thomas Tuchel explains two important line-up decisions for Chelsea | OneFootball

Chelsea’s team to face Fulham in this afternoon’s early kick off it out, and it’s much as you’d expect.

In fact, it’s the exact same team that blew away West Ham 5-1 a week. That’s understandable, but there is one quirk to that selection.

James left out as England duty comes calling

Reece James pre-game against Palmeiras. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

After playing on the Sunday in the first week back, Chelsea had just 4 days to recover before West Ham. So it made sense to rotate Reece James out for Malo Gusto. James featured as a second half sub in that game.

But by the same logic James should be able to return today, yet he’s left out again. He’s on the bench, so it’s unlikely to be an injury issue.

We suspect it’s a decision made with the upcoming international break in mind. England manager Thomas Tuchel has picked James and probably intends to use him. Knowing this, Maresca will use him only as a second half sub again today,

Tuchel has then returned the favour by not picking Cole Palmer, who misses a second game in a row today, in his squad for the upcoming fortnight.

James enters new stage of minute management

We’re all delighted for James that his fitness has reached the point where he’s getting called up for England regularly. Having to be managed a little at club level is a small price to pay for that.

Gusto has had his ups and downs – at times last year we despaired with his performances, but when used right he’s really effective.

It will be curious to see how this situation develops over the course of the year, as the gradual managing of James’ minutes potentially eases off. Clearly he’s not going to be playing Champions League and Premier League – which one will Maresca give his captain priority?