Right now, Chelsea are not where they want to be in the Premier League table.
Liam Rosenior’s side were able to beat Brentford 2-0 last weekend but still sit outside the top four.
Chelsea have been very inconsistent this season yet have many talented players in their squad, including the likes of Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo and Reece James.
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Manchester United legend Denis Irwin is a huge fan of one of those players and has made some interesting comments about them.
Chelsea v Brentford - Premier League
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Denis Irwin thinks Reece James can become world-class
Irwin was recently given a list of full-backs and asked whether they are world-class or not.
When James’ name came up, the former Premier League title winner told ESPN: “Potentially Reece. Honestly, if he stayed fit and had a good run of games. I’d say he’s a really, really top player.”
The 26-year-old seems to have overcome his injury problems now. While James missed Chelsea’s recent defeat to Arsenal, he has been fit for practically every other game.
START, BENCH, SELL: Marc Cucurella, Reece James and Malo Gusto
Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella coming on for Malo Gusto
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In total, James has made 26 appearances this season. Last term, the Englishman made 32. Compare that to the 2023/24 campaign when he only managed to play in 11 matches, and it is clear to see his injury woes are behind him.
With that in mind, plenty of Chelsea fans would disagree with Irwin and say James is already world-class.
Denis Irwin, Manchester United former player attends the funeral of former Manchester United Receptionist Kath Phipps
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Reece James already world-class
This season, James has played in midfield and at right-back and has performed at a world-class level in both positions.
In midfield, the Chelsea captain has used his strength to protect the ball and his excellent range of passing to transition the team from defence to attack. At right-back, he has been solid and also offered a threat going forward with his crossing.
James has stayed fit for over a year now. There is no longer an argument for the England international not being a world-class footballer.
Whether it is as a midfielder or a right-back, James performs at a ridiculously high level and has been doing so for a while now.
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