Chelsea’s head coach, Enzo Maresca, has publicly praised the qualities of his captain, Reece Lewis James, while expressing his delight at the return of the 25-year-old right-back.
In October 2024, Maresca challenged his captain to show greater personality and leadership in his role, a challenge James has responded to well, according to the manager.
The 44-year-old Italian manager made this assertion during his pre-West Ham United press conference, where he hailed James as one of the club’s best players.
“We are very happy that he is back. For us, we consider Reece a top player, one of the best players we have and for sure he’s going to help from now on.”
“He is trying to make an effort in terms of this kind of things, in terms of leadership. I’ve said many times, the captain and all the captains need to be a good example, they have to try with all the team-mates. Especially since we have many young players.
“He’s doing it in sessions, in the changing rooms, all the time.” Maresca said.
Reece James, who has been sidelined due to injury, is known for his exceptional defensive capabilities, versatility, and leadership on the field. His return is seen as a major reinforcement for the Blues as they look to continue their push in both domestic and international competitions.
The 25-year-old, whose injury struggles have limited his availability once again this season, made a crucial impact last month, scoring a stoppage-time equalizer in Chelsea’s 2-2 draw against Bournemouth. This marked his first league appearance since November.
Chelsea, will face West Ham United on Monday, February 3, 2025 at Stamford Bridge and will hope to return to winning ways as they last won a game on 20th January, 2025 in their 3:1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Bridge.
The win over Wolves is the only win Chelsea have recorded in their last seven English Premier League games. However, Enzo Maresca disclosed that his side are “better than two months ago even if they are struggling to win games.”
“In this moment we are better than two months ago and the reason is because the players all need to live these kind of moments, this kind of difficulty, to be better in the future. We are better than two months ago, even if we are struggling to win games.”
Source: Elvisanokyenews.com
