Reece James aims to be fit for Chelsea upon their return to England.

James has been out with a hamstring injury since the end of December, missing Chelsea's last nine games, but is on the verge of handing Thomas Tuchel a major boost and could be back in contention for the trip to Selhurst Park on Saturday week.

Chelsea have been patient regarding James's recovery and the process has also been slowed by the defender suffering a bout of flu.

But a return to full fitness after the Club World Cup would be timely with Chelsea heading into a crucial period in their season.

Their Champions League campaign resumes against Lille three days after they face Palace. They then meet Liverpool in the EFL Cup final on February 27.