Chelsea's unvaccinated players are expected to be allowed to play in France against Lille next month

Thomas Tuchel is confident Chelsea’s unvaccinated players will be available for next month’s Champions League last 16 second leg tie in Lille.

The Blues were set to be without a number of players who have not had the Covid jab due to strict regulations in France.

Speaking about the issue last month, Tuchel admitted that taking on the Ligue 1 champions with a depleted squad could 'create problems' for his side.

But a recent easing of the rules means Chelsea’s unvaccinated players can travel provided they have an exemption.

Asked whether he was preparing to be without players who have not had the injection for the game on March 16, Tuchel said: ‘No, I don’t think so. I think the rules at the moment allow us to travel with everybody. And we need everybody.’

Meanwhile, Sportsmail understands Reece James will this week make his return to action following a hamstring injury that has kept him out since the end of December.

The defender was in scintillating form prior to his setback, scoring four goals and delivering five assists in the Premier League in the first part of the season.

Chelsea face Lille in the first leg tomorrow night as they look to retain the trophy they won by beating Manchester City last May in Porto.

They then take on Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final on Sunday - and there is hope the England star will be involved in one of the games, most likely at Wembley at the weekend.