Chelsea captain Reece James said he has needed time to grow into the role after being appointed when he was only 23.
The defender will lead out the Blues in a final for the first time as skipper for Wednesday’s Conference League final against Real Betis in Wroclaw with the club looking to lift a first trophy since 2021.
Earlier this season he was criticised by head coach Enzo Maresca for falling short in his leadership duties at a time when he was out of the side through injury.
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That hamstring problem was just the latest in a succession of fitness issues that have wrecked much of the last three seasons for the now 25-year-old.
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Injury-free since January, he is enjoying his best run of form in years and has played a key role in the team’s impressive Premier League run-in which saw them seal a return to the Champions League on Sunday.
“I think one thing to remember is captains and leaders are made, they’re not born,” said James.
“I got given the role at such a young age, when I was going through a difficult period, I had a lot of injuries, I wasn’t on the pitch so much. So it was definitely hard during my first season as captain.
“But I think I’ve grown so much in helping the team, the more I play.”
Victory against Betis in Poland would cap the best week Chelsea have enjoyed since the current owners took charge in 2022 and embarked upon wholesale changes.
Reece James scored his first England goal against Latvia in March (Mike Egerton/PA
Reece James scored his first England goal against Latvia in March (Mike Egerton/PA(Mike Egerton/PA)
The 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Sunday that ensured qualification for Europe’s top competition for the first time since Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital bought the club wrapped up Maresca’s stated aim for the season.
The Conference League has clearly featured as a second priority even towards the latter rounds but James insisted they have taken the tournament seriously.
“I think the message from the manager was clear from day one,” he said. “You can’t neglect any competition you’re in and you need to give it your all.
“At the end of the day, it’s a huge European competition. Look at the final we’re in tomorrow against such a big team with so much history.
“I think he’s helped us a lot this season and played a big part in us reaching the final and securing the Champions League (qualification).”