Jamie O’Hara has claimed Graham Potter simply can’t do without Reece James in his Chelsea XI right now.
James, who’s had his problems with knee injuries in recent months, has only played 15 games across all competitions so far this season.
However, everyone is well aware of just how important the 23-year-old right-back is at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues star has returned to the side in recent weeks to the delight of the fanbase, but he was completely rested during Saturday’s 1-0 home defeat to Southampton in the Premier League.
According to The Telegraph, James risked a significant injury if he started the Southampton contest.
TalkSPORT pundit Jamie O’Hara has waxed lyrical about James’ influence on the pitch.
It’s intriguing to hear him describe the defender as the elite individual in the current Blues squad.
“I think Reece James is unbelievable. I love watching Reece James play football. Every time he walks on a football pitch I just enjoy watching him,” O’Hara told talkSPORT.
“He’s their best player. At the moment, they can’t afford to not play him, but at the end of the day, it’s Southampton, and they still have an unbelievable team out.”
In our view, James is certainly right up there as one of Chelsea’s very best players. We’d like to chuck Thiago Silva into the mix, too.
For James, the key is staying fit over a long period and allowing his quality to shine on the pitch.
His impact in both halves of the pitch makes him a unique star for the Blues, who miss him both defensively and offensively when he’s not there.
Hopefully, he won’t need many more rests from now until the end of the season.
Potter must be fully aware that Chelsea’s full-back is one of the most consisent and excellent performers in his squad, but he can’t risk losing him again for an extended period of time.
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