Premier League legend Rio Ferdinand has named Reece James among his picks of the Premier League’s best young talents.
The English top division is home to many of the world’s best young footballers.
Under Frank Lampard, Chelsea have showcased the products of their renowned academy such as Billy Gilmour, Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount.
Now Ferdinand has tipped one of Chelsea academy graduates for greatness, among other fine talents such as Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli, Manchester United’s Mason Greenwood and Manchester City’s Phil Foden.
The former Manchester United’s defender told the Mirror: “Another one is Reece James – I like this kid. With his crossing he puts teams under pressure, he wants to hurt the opposing team and make you face your own goal.
“He’s got so much growth in his game. He is versatile – he’s played centre-half for Wigan, he can play right-back, even in centre midfield.
“Plus he looks like he’s got a great temperament which is huge and physically he is like a middleweight boxer – he’s strong, solid, quick and aggressive. I think he’ll become a mainstay in that team.”
James, who was named Wigan’s player of the year in his loan spell last term, has started 11 Premier League games this season.
The 20-year-old has still been Lampard’s second-choice for the right-back position, with captain Cesar Azpilicueta ahead of him. But, with the Spaniard entering his thirties, James will likely have his chance soon.