After a string of world-class displays in midfield, Reece James has addressed questions around his position moving forward.
The Chelsea captain is as complete a footballer as you will find, demonstrated by his Swiss army knife role he plays in Enzo Maresca’s side this season.
James put on a midfield masterclass against Arsenal, hijacking the ‘best midfielder’ debate that many were discussing as Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo prepared to face off.
The thing is, Maresca has always seen James as a midfielder. He has said so many times. But where on the pitch does the man himself think he should be playing?
The moment Reece James announced his return vs Bournemouth
Surely he’ll be back in the side on Saturday…
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Reece James has a new view on his position for Chelsea
While injuries have prevented him from enjoying long spells at the top of his game, when fit, James is inarguably the best right-back in the Premier League — and possibly the world.
His unique blend of physicality, speed and technical excellence makes him a dread-inducing matchup for even the best wide players.
That being said, he is showing a similar kind of prowess in Chelsea’s engine room, punctuated by that Arsenal performance.
Reece James of Chelsea is challenged by Martin Zubimendi of Arsenal
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
James was asked the burning question in a recent interview featured on Chelsea’s website.
His opinion has changed along with all of ours, as he explains: “I don’t really have a preference to be honest. I’ve played so much with both.
“If you asked me a year ago maybe I would have had a preference, but now, having played half and half in both roles I’m just happy to be back on the pitch.”
You and every Chelsea fan! The impact of James’ presence on the pitch cannot be overstated — both for his talent and his leadership.
It sounds like he doesn’t mind where he’s deployed.
Chelsea’s interest in Daniel Munoz makes more sense now
Last month, rumblings of Chelsea interest in Crystal Palace’s Daniel Munoz reemerged.
Daniel Munoz and Moises Cacedo during Chelsea vs Crystal Palace
Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images
Upon hearing the news, we pointed out how Munoz would not suit Maresca and Chelsea, but James’ evolution could change that.
Malo Gusto is also having a great season, and he won’t be going anywhere. But a transition into the midfield for James could open the door for Munoz to break into the first-team picture at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea would be deviating from their usual strategy, signing a 29-year-old, but the interest is real and has been held since the last winter window.
James clearly doesn’t mind where on the pitch he plays, but if he does move into the midfield permanently, the Munoz deal makes a lot more sense.
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