James admits battling Burnley did not deserve to lose 4-0

Reece James was delighted to get back among the goals as Chelsea picked up a 4-0 win at Burnley — but admitted the scoreline did not reflect the game.

The Blues rode their luck in the first half on Saturday as the relegation-haunted Clarets made life difficult at Turf Moor. 

James, back in the starting line-up for the first time since a 1-1 draw against Brighton in late December, broke the deadlock two minutes into the second half with a fine effort. 

His goal brought the European champions to life and Kai Havertz added a quickfire brace before Christian Pulisic wrapped up the victory in the 69th minute. 

James said: “It was a very enjoyable win, coming away from home and winning 4-0, but the scoreline doesn’t reflect the game.

“That was a very tough first half. Burnley set up very well and made it difficult to play. 

“Sometimes in games like this you need the one goal to break the deadlock and then everyone settles — and we got that.

“It has been a while since I have played in the Premier League and I am happy to be back fit again and to help the team out. 

“I picked up a bit of a knock but it is alright now and we move on to the next game.”

Havertz, chosen to lead the line ahead of the benched Romelu Lukaku, added: “The result is very good for us. 

“I think we needed these goals and also to play with zero goals for them.

“It was difficult, especially the first half. It was important for us that we scored very early in the second half. 

“I think overall it was a good performance from us.”

James and fellow 22-year-old Havertz will hope to be in the starting XI once again on Thursday when Thomas Tuchel’s side head to Norwich.