Chris Sutton thinks that Reece James is top of the pecking order when it comes to England right-backs, speaking on BBC Radio Five Live.
Chelsea’s talented full-back was called up by Gareth Southgate to the Three Lions squad ahead of their World Cup qualifying group games.
James played in the 5-0 win over San Marino, but sat out the following win over Albania.
Debate continues to roll over who should be the first choice full-backs for England at this summer’s European Championships.
Plenty had been made about the exclusion of Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold from the latest camp, along with Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissakka.
Both players will still believe they have a shot at making the Euros in June.
However, Sutton felt that James had the edge over his compatriots for that specific position.
The former Chelsea striker said: “Out of all the right-backs that England have at this moment in time, I think that Reece James is ahead of all the others because he can play the wing-back role particularly well.
“He defends pretty well in one-v-one situations and I think his delivery in the final third is absolutely exceptional.”
The 21-year-old is enjoying another impressive season at Stamford Bridge following on from his breakthrough campaign under Frank Lampard.
He hasn’t been a consistent starter for Thomas Tuchel, but is certainly well regarded by the German coach.
England play Poland tomorrow evening, easily their toughest test of their international break.
This should give a much better indication of Southgate’s strongest XI and whether or not James really is the first-choice right-back.
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I can’t argue with Sutton’s statement at all, even if I do question Southgate’s decision.
I was shocked to see Wan-Bissakka left out of the latest national team, because I think his defensive attributes outweigh James’.
But I’m certainly not complaining, just curious.
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