If Chelsea fans needed a reminder of just how good their club captain is, then they were giving it in England’s recent win.
Former Blues boss Thomas Tuchel led the Three Lions to a 3-0 win against Latvia which was highlighted by a stunning free-kick scored by Reece James at a point where his side were labouring.
Tuchel was wowed by James’ goal, despite the fact that he is more than familiar with how good the player is following their time working together in the past at Stamford Bridge.
It was the 25-year-old’s first start for his country in more than two years following a plethora of injury problems, although James’ Player of the Match display didn’t show any signs of rustiness.
It’s clear why Tuchel was delighted to call James up, and it looks as if the Chelsea man is going to be a key part of what the German is looking to do in his new job.
Photo by Rob Newell - CameraSport via Getty Images
Photo by Rob Newell – CameraSport via Getty Images
One thing that was notable about his goal was the fact James hardly celebrated. This is despite the fact that it was his first strike for his country.
In his return game for Chelsea against Bournemouth in the Premier League earlier this year, the skipper scored another free-kick, however this one was met with passionate celebrations.
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James said in his post-match interview that he was originally surprised the ball had gone in, however after watching it back perhaps underrated just how good a strike it was.
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
He said to ITV Football: “Yeah it’s been a long time, I’ve had a frustrating two-and-a-half years, so happy to get called up for my country again and happy to play.
“I saw the wall and felt I could bend it round, and thankfully I managed to hit the back of the net. I was a bit surprised it actually hit the net, I thought the keeper could have maybe got there, but looking at the replay it was probably tough.”
Reece James’ different position under Thomas Tuchel
Current Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has made it clear that he sees James’ future in midfield at Stamford Bridge.
He recently claimed this had been the plan since the start, however it seems his national team coach disagrees with this, as he started the game at right-back in an experimental England back four.
He did still pick up inverted positions at times, however was merely helping out in the middle rather than playing there outright.
It remains to be seen if the same happens at Chelsea when Romeo Lavia returns to full fitness, something which may occur straight after the international break.