Rio Ferdinand has been comparing Chelsea captain Reece James and Real Madrid star Trent Alexander-Arnold.
James and Alexander-Arnold’s names have both been in the headlines, with Thomas Tuchel deciding to call up the former for his latest England squad but excluding the latter.
James played a key role in the Three Lions’ 2-0 win against Andorra last Saturday, setting up Declan Rice with an excellent cross.
After the game, Noni Madueke praised James, his former Chelsea teammate, describing him as “top quality”.
- READ MORE: National media drop their Reece James verdict after Chelsea defender’s display vs Andorra
Rio Ferdinand claims Chelsea’s Reece James has fewer weaknesses than Real Madrid’s Trent Alexander-Arnold
Darren Bent recently discussed James, claiming that the 25-year-old is a better “all-round” full-back than Alexander-Arnold, and Ferdinand appears to be on the same page.
For the Manchester United legend, James is more complete, possessing fewer weaknesses than the former Liverpool man.
Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents, he said: “I think there are games that you could play Trent and games you go for Reece. I think Reece, defensively, is better. I think Reece’s all-round game is more complete.
“I’d agree with Kyle Walker. I think there are less holes in Reece’s game. I think Reece’s only problem that he’s had in his career is availability because of injuries and that’s been a big issue for him.”
James helped Chelsea to win their last game before the international break, coming on as a substitute in their 2-0 win against Fulham.
James had the chance to join Fulham as a youngster, but opted to sign for Chelsea’s academy instead.
After becoming club captain and winning multiple honours at Stamford Bridge, it is a decision that he will not regret.
Kyle Walker hails Reece James as the ‘complete’ full-back
Ferdinand and Bent are not the only admirers of James. As Ferdinand mentioned, Manchester City legend Walker also thinks James is the finished article.
When Walker spoke about James last year, he said: “He’s just got everything. Everything. If I could make a complete right-back, it would be him. Defend, attack, technically, both-footed, dead-ball situations, quick.”
In the England international and Malo Gusto, Enzo Maresca has two really good right-back options.
Josh Acheampong is also a right-back, so the Chelsea manager can be more than pleased with what he has at his disposal.
Now it is just about keeping James fit, something Maresca has been able to do in recent months. If that remains the case, then Chelsea’s chances of having a successful season will dramatically increase.
James has another west London derby to look forward to after the international break, as Chelsea take on Brentford.
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