Chelsea’s current options at right back are not exactly ideal. Cesar Azpilicueta has struggled this season while Davide Zappacosta has not overly impressed. Before looking to the transfer market, Chelsea would be wise to closely monitor the progress of their loanee, Reece James.
James, at only 18, has developed into a very good full back. He can play just as well at right back as he can at left back.
Last season, he captained the Chelsea under 18’s team to victory in the FA Youth Cup. He was also named as the team’s player of the year. At international level, he was part of the team that won the 2017 European under 19’s championship.
This summer, he was rewarded with a four year contract by the Blues who then sent him on loan to Wigan Athletic in the championship.
He has started 12 games for the Latics so far who were promoted from League One and currently sit in mid-table. Wigan fans on Twitter are almost unanimous in their approval of James.
https://twitter.com/_yon_mon/status/1048608730718322688
James is clearly impressing. He defends well and he is more of a threat going forward than both Azpilicueta and Zappacosta. This video gives a taste of his ability.
https://twitter.com/CarvalhoJTElite/status/1042166615058591744
We know by now that the chances of James returning and getting minutes for the first team are slim. Nevertheless, if Chelsea do not identify a clear target to purchase for the right back position, looking to James would not be the worst idea.
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