As former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel picked up his second win as England manager, it was one of the familiar faces he had in his squad who sent them on their way.
Blues skipper Reece James marked his first start for his country in more than two years with a sensational free-kick to put them 1-0 up, with them going on to win 3-0.
James’ injury woes have followed him into this season, however he has now been regularly fit since returning to the squad with another free-kick against Bournemouth in January.
The 25-year-old started at right-back for England against Latvia, despite the fact that it has become clear Enzo Maresca sees his future in midfield.
Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images
Photo by Robin Jones/Getty Images
Thomas Tuchel praises Reece James after sensational free-kick
Tuchel disagrees though, and he will know very well what James can provide after making him a crucial part of his Champions League winning team back in 2021.
The German will therefore have been delighted he was able to call him up to his first squad as England manager, and even more thrilled when he showed his quality with the free-kick goal.
Tuchel told ITV Football after the game that he is more than aware of how good James is, and he was impressed with the condition he found his player in.
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He said: “I know Reecey, the foot and the quality he has is amazing. He has every right to be proud and happy. He’s in excellence shape. He looks sharp. The quality… there cannot be any doubt.”
Reece James prefers Tuchel to Maresca
Given the nature of Chelsea hiring and firing managers at a speedy rate, the Blues skipper has already played under plenty of names at Stamford Bridge.
Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
When recently asked, James stated that Tuchel was his favourite manager of all time, putting him ahead of current boss Maresca.
He said: “With what I’ve worked with? The best. There’s various reasons why… But I think he brought trophies to the club when we probably least expected it, in a difficult period.”
James will be hoping he can a key role in the Blues’ last nine Premier League games as they push to keep themselves in the hunt for Champions League football next season.