Reece James was unfortunate to be on the losing side in Sunday’s London derby between Arsenal and Chelsea.
James played a key role in Chelsea’s equaliser after Piero Hincapie turned the right-back’s corner into his own net and had a good game overall.
That did not prevent the Blues from losing 2-1, but James can be pleased with his individual performance.
Liam Rosenior has claimed that Pedro Neto was a threat before his red card 🤔
Pedro Neto's stats vs Arsenal
Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Reece James’ defensive and offensive stats in Chelsea’s defeat to Arsenal were fantastic
Chelsea as a whole defended quite well against Arsenal. Mikel Arteta’s men needed two set pieces to score, as James and the rest of the Blues’ backline kept them at bay in open play.
As per Sofascore, James won all three tackles that he attempted, while the 26-year-old also won four out of five ground duels. In total, he made six defensive contributions.
Reece James of Chelsea passes the ball during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Chelsea
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Where James really made an impact, though, was in attack. His delivery from corners caused Arsenal problems but so did his crosses from open play.
James put in 11 crosses at the Emirates and four of them were accurate. He also registered two key passes and created one big chance.
It was a masterclass by James and a complete full-back performance. Had Chelsea not lost the game, the England international would have won Player of the Match.
Jurrien Timber was the man who grabbed Arsenal’s winner, and many consider him the best right-back in the Premier League right now. However, that title should be bestowed on James, and the Chelsea captain showed why once again on Sunday.
Who has been the better right-back this season?
Reece James vs Jurrien Timber
Credit: Marc Atkins/Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
James has played some games in midfield this season, while Chelsea are not challenging for the title. There is less of a spotlight on him and the Blues.
But there is not a more complete full-back in England than James, who can tackle, cross, shoot and take set pieces. His display is one positive Liam Rosenior can take from Sunday’s defeat.
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