Reece James has recently sat down for an interview to talk all things Chelsea and the returning Cole Palmer came up
James and Palmer have two seasons of experience as teammates, and have both come a long way.
Palmer exploded as soon as he came to Stamford Bridge. James was already well-established, but he has raised the already-high bar to the point where we have to have ‘best in position’ conversations about Chelsea’s captain.
On the pitch, they have shown a winning mentality, picking up two trophies and lifting Chelsea from 12th to 6th to the Champions League.
Cole Palmer hold the Conference League trophy after Chelsea beat Real Betis in the final.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Reece James all compliments for Cole Palmer
Palmer is finally returning after an extended period out of action, but even while he was injured, he was around Cobham most days, going to youth games, and cheering on his teammates.
James has nothing but good things to say (via Chelseafc): “You know, he’s an amazing player and an amazing person as well you know, he’s quite reserved, but he has a funny side as well, he means well.
“He’s been sidelined, but we’re happy he’s back with us.”
As well as throwing praise at Palmer, James spoke about his future position and what his hopes are for this season — now that we’re really getting into the thick of it.
The Chelsea captain is growing into his leadership role with each passing game, and has now been fit for over a year. This is the player we knew was in there, but seeing how good he has been this season has blown expectations out of the water.
Captain Fantastic 💪🔵
Is Reece James frontrunner for Chelsea's Player of the Season? 👀
🥁 Introducing your Player of the Month…
Reece James. 🌟
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) December 5, 2025
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Reece James wins Chelsea POTM for November
James was Chelsea fans’ pick for best performer last month, and he deserved it. He split his time between right-back and midfield, transitioning between the two seamlessly.
Starting five of the six games, his best was definitely the last against the league leaders.
Three Arsenal players were put in the book while trying to stop James, he got the assist from a corner, and he almost single-handedly made up for Chelsea’s dismissed man.
What a player.
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