Chelsea fans consider Reece James to be the No.1 right-back in the Premier League.
James may just be the most well-rounded full-back in football, with the Chelsea captain able to defend and attack. Ashley Cole recently picked James over Nuno Mendes.
He is a solid defender, but you really do see the best of him when he is in the final third of the pitch.
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Chelsea Training Session and Press Conference
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
No Premier League defender has created more big chances than Chelsea’s Reece James
James’ best attribute is probably his crossing, which puts him in the conversation regarding the best attacking full-back in the Premier League. His ability to create chances in general is incredible.
For example, according to Squawka, James has created eight big chances in the English top flight this term. No defender has created more than him.
After one England game last year, Thomas Tuchel described the quality in his right foot as “amazing” (via Sky Sports). Looking back at some of his performances in the current campaign, it is easy to see why.
Thomas Tuchel, Head Coach of England, and Reece James
Photo by Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images
James’ critics will argue that he does not play enough games because of injuries and that the 26-year-old has spent a lot of time in midfield.
Those are certainly fair points. But if you are talking about pure attacking ability, there is no way you can say there is a better offensive full-back in England than James. It is impossible!
On top of the eight chances that he has created, James has scored two goals and provided four assists in 27 Premier League games. As per WhoScored, The Three Lions star is also completing one key pass and 1.1 crosses per game, which are very high averages for a defender.
Chelsea are without James now because of injury, but the good news is that their skipper is expected to return to action before the season concludes. That means he should make it to this summer’s World Cup after missing the one in Qatar back in 2022.
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