Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is eager to fast-track Reece James' first team introduction.

Lampard has earmarked the defender, 19, as the next Academy kid ready for promotion.

James needed ankle surgery in the summer but is now on an intensive rehab programme.

Chelsea hope he is training fully in time for the next international break at the start of next month.

Lampard wants to use that time, when many of his stars are away, to get a closer look at him, says The Sun.

Fellow full-back Davide Zappacosta's exit to Roma on loan has created space for James.