Theo Walcott breaks down why Reece James is ‘very unique’ after watching him boss Arsenal

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Despite going down to 10 men, Chelsea were able to earn a point against Arsenal and have their captain Reece James largely to thank.

James was terrific in Sunday’s London derby, holding Chelsea’s midfield together after Moises Caicedo’s sending off.

The 25-year-old assisted Trevoh Chalobah’s opener and was really dominant in the engine room as the Blues went on to draw 1-1.

His performance really caught the eye of former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott, who had a lot of positive things to say after the game.

• READ MORE: Daniel Sturridge’s controversial take on Moises Caicedo’s red card for Chelsea vs Arsenal

Theo Walcott says Reece James is ‘unique’ because of his versatility

For Walcott, James is a “very unique” player, and he has put that down to the Chelsea captain’s versatility.

Speaking about James on Sky Sports, he said: “James’ versatility is brilliant, it’s very unique. It’s a great option that Thomas Tuchel can have in certain games for England. You’ve got his delivery at set pieces, which are so important for a lot of clubs and national teams.

“What I’m really pleased to see in his development is his growth and leadership skills. He’s been questioned in the past about whether he’s a leader and a captain, and he clearly is on today’s performance.”

Despite playing in midfield lately, many would still consider the England international as one of the best right-backs in the Premier League.

Pat Nevin prefers a fit James to Jurrien Timber despite the Arsenal star excelling himself this season.

With Malo Gusto performing well in the right-back position, Chelsea fans could see James continue in midfield.

Reece James at home in midfield

Honestly, considering that James is such a complete full-back, at times, it does feel like Enzo Maresca is wasting him when he starts him in midfield. However, right now, the Chelsea academy graduate is playing exceptionally well there.

While James may very well be the complete full-back, he has the necessary skill set to play in the engine room and showed that against Arsenal.

The England star can pass the ball, carry it and protect it with his strength. When Romeo Lavia is back from injury, you suspect that the Belgian will start alongside Caicedo in midfield for Chelsea’s big games.

However, until then, the likelihood is that Maresca will continue to utilise James centrally. It must be a big relief at Stamford Bridge that he has overcome his own injury problems.