The Belgium international has been with the Blues since the summer of 2023, but he has yet to become an established figure due to injury woes.

Lavia made a surprise start in central midfield alongside Moises Caicedo yesterday. He was substituted before the hour mark by the manager.

Speaking after the game, Lavia said that he is very happy with the minutes under his belt, but remains disappointed after the result.

He said: "Of course, I’m very happy with the minutes I got and it’s pleasing to be back in action and helping the team.

"I’m a competitor though and I want to win, so I’m disappointed with the result. It’s a day of mixed feelings really."

Alongside Lavia, James made his first Premier League start of the campaign after overcoming a lengthy hamstring issue.

The club captain managed to stay unscathed over 55 minutes, but his performance was a mixed day with defensive errors.

James has just started training with the team and he will be aiming to return to his vintage best over the forthcoming matches.

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