After Chelsea’s defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday, the usual people were turned to for quotes. Of course Enzo Maresca is going to say something, but you also knew you were going to hear from Reece James.
The home grown club captain is the natural person to speak to, and in the last year he has really taken up the mantle of a leader in the media as well as on the pitch and in the dressing room.
James rises to Maresca challenge
Reece James celebrates his assist.
Reece James celebrates his assist. (Photo by Chris Lee/Chelsea FC)
A little over a year ago Maresca quite pointedly said he wanted to see more leadership from his captain, and it’s fair to say James has responded. Not naturally a big personality, he’s made a clear effort to speak out more.
“Naturally, being on the pitch more often has helped James’ leadership,” the Athletic write.
“He has responded well to Maresca’s challenge. As he has grown into the captaincy, he has expressed himself more and his increased comfort in media interviews has been noticed at Chelsea. He is described as having the respect of everyone at the club.”
Maresca had said before the Villa game that he was pleased with the captain’s progress on and off the pitch.
The next stage is working his way back into Thomas Tuchel’s England plans, and if he keeps playing every week and developing as a leader there’s almost no way the coach can leave him out.
In other news…
James has now hit the one year mark of staying fit after his latest return from injury, and the Athletic had a look at how the captain has managed it, along with help from the club.
Chelsea’s dropping of points at home has been a real problem this season, and we’ve now got the stats to prove it.
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