Reece James is proving to be a good role model for Tyrique George and the other young players at Chelsea.
The defender was made Chelsea captain in 2023 and will be hoping to lead his side out on Saturday when they take on Burnley at Turf Moor.
James scored a good goal against Burnley back in the 2021/22 season, so he has fond memories of this fixture.
Fit again and playing well, there is no doubt that Enzo Maresca will be happy with his skipper right now.
Chelsea defender Reece James speaking to Enzo Maresca
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Tyrique George reveals Reece James is the first Chelsea player out for training
Maresca will also be pleased with James’ conduct as captain, with the 25-year-old really setting a fine example of late.
George recently told Chelsea’s official club website that James is the first player out to training at Cobham.
Maresca has not always been satisfied with James, criticising the England international for a lack of leadership last season.
However, he has done a lot of growing since then. Presently, there is not a better candidate for the Chelsea armband.
Part of a very young squad at Stamford Bridge, James is one of the more experienced players on Chelsea’s books.
Reece James and Tyrique George in Chelsea training
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Tyrique George thinks Reece James can play in very unfamiliar position
George was also asked by Chelsea’s website which defender or midfielder at the club would make the best striker. The answer he went with was James.
That is hardly a surprise, as the Chelsea academy graduate is very good at attacking despite being a defender.
James has a couple of assists in the Premier League this season, while he took his only goal so far against Nottingham Forest really well.
Ultimately, James is a threat going forward and a solid defender. He may just be the most well-rounded full-back in the Premier League. James should get plenty more opportunities to prove that this term now that he has put all of his injury woes behind him.