As Chelsea fans, we want to see Reece James on the pitch every minute of every game!
He is our captain and one of the best full-backs in the world. Unfortunately, James has become extremely susceptible to picking up hamstring injuries and has sustained another one with England at the World Cup.
This one was not too serious, with the 26-year-old in line to play in the Three Lions’ last 16 game against Mexico.
However, these hamstring injuries have become so recurring with the Chelsea star that it would not surprise anyone if he missed games next season because of more of them. If so, who could stand in for him as captain? Here are The Chelsea Chronicle’s top three candidates to deputise for James in the 2026/27 campaign:
3. Moises Caicedo
Moises Caicedo is probably not the most vocal footballer on the pitch, but he leads by example with his performances and how he fights for the ball in every game.
How would you rank Chelsea’s so-called “untouchables” ahead of the new season?
Here is The Chelsea Chronicle's list!
7. Josh Acheampong
6. Estevao Willian
5. Levi Colwill
4. Moises Caicedo
3. Joao Pedro
2. Reece James
1. Cole Palmer
Caicedo has already captained Chelsea in the past and is one of the more experienced players in this very young squad. He can definitely fill in for James when necessary.
2. Enzo Fernandez
Controversial, but next in line should be Enzo Fernandez if he remains at Stamford Bridge beyond the summer.
Fernandez is not the most popular player at Chelsea right now after pushing for a move to Real Madrid, while his agent Javier Pastore has done him no favours either.
Nevertheless, Fernandez is currently the Blues’ vice-captain and is one of the leaders in the dressing room. He is someone you can easily imagine Xabi Alonso turning to next term.
1. Levi Colwill
After everything that has happened with Fernandez, Levi Colwill is probably the best candidate for the vice-captain role.
Colwill is Chelsea through and through, always speaks very well and is an exceptional footballer.
Enzo Maresca has previously spoken about Colwill’s leadership qualities, so this is someone who is capable of rallying his teammates.
Hopefully James can just stay fit next season. But if not, Chelsea do have stand-ins for the captaincy.
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