Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images
One thing to keep an eye on during Xabi Alonso’s tenure as Chelsea manager is how he uses Reece James.
James is Chelsea captain and one of the best players in Alonso’s squad. There is no doubt that he is going to be a key figure for the Spaniard this season.
However, where the defender will play is still not exactly clear yet. James is extremely versatile, able to play at right-back, centre-back and in midfield.
Xabi Alonso on Marco Palestra
Credit: Andri Munazir/NurPhoto/Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Chelsea accept Reece James can’t play at right wing-back
If one report is to be believed, one position Chelsea fans may be able to rule out is right wing-back.
Journalist Simon Phillips has reported on Si Phillips Talks Chelsea that there is an “acceptance” that James will not be able to play at right wing-back.
That will leave Pedro Neto, Marco Palestra and Malo Gusto battling it out for the spot there if Alonso uses a 3-4-2-1 formation.
Of course, Neto could still leave Chelsea between now and the end of the season, which would leave Palestra and Gusto as his main two options for the role.
As for James, he could play on the right side of a back three or in midfield. Last time out, James started in the middle of the park next to Moises Caicedo as Chelsea went on to beat Real Sociedad 3-1.
Reece James of Chelsea
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Xabi Alonso will reduce risk of injury if he doesn’t use Reece James as a wing-back
James certainly has the ability to play as a wing-back. In fact, there is probably not a more suited player for the role in world football.
James’ crossing with his right foot is amazing, making him the perfect right wing-back. The problem is his injury record.
READ MORE:There’s absolutely no disagreeing with how Xabi Alonso has just described Reece James
Unfortunately, James has had a lot of issues with his hamstring, and the intensity that comes with playing as a wing-back would really test his fitness. Not using him there, then, makes a lot of sense.
I think we are mostly going to see James in central defence and in midfield under Alonso.