Chelsea’s boss Graham Potter thinks Reece James will only keep improving after his spectacular performance last night.
James scored and assisted in midweek during a comprehensive 3-0 home victory for the Blues over AC Milan, which gave them three vital points in the Champions League group stages.
James set up Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s goal with a trademark cross into the penalty box. Also, he netted himself with a powerful finish into the roof of the net that gave the goalkeeper no chance.
The 22-year-old showed what he can do going forward in his preferred right wing-back position. Rio Ferdinand loved the way he defended “aggressively” on Wednesday night, too.
James will get better
Potter was full of praise for Chelsea’s wing-back in his post-match interview after Milan.
Chelsea fans may be particularly pleased to hear Potter’s prediction that the England international is going to get even better over time.
“I think Reece is just a fantastic player, and he’s a young player, so he’s developing all the time. He’ll get better and better as we go,” Potter said, as quoted by Football London.
“I’ve really enjoyed working with him, he’s got a lot to offer, he’s fantastic. He could play any game in the world, he’s tremendous. My job is to help him reach his potential because his potential is beyond the sky.”
G/A target
If James can stay fit for the season, he should be aiming to break his own individual record for goals and assists in a single campaign.
He ended up with six goals and 11 assists across all competitions last season in 39 games.
The powerhouse defender has two goals and two assists already during this campaign, so should be driving himself on to do even more in attack.
It’s pretty clear just how crucial the wing-backs are when Chelsea decide to use a back three, with James capable of influencing games in a big way from his wide position high up the pitch.
Keep up to date with all the latest Chelsea news and opinion by following The Chelsea Chronicle’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.