Rio Ferdinand found a few kind words to throw in the direction of one Reece James following his performance for Chelsea against Burnley.
Speaking on his own YouTube channel, Ferdinand emphasised the full-back’s worth to Thomas Tuchel, using the weekend’s display as a perfect example.
James is just fantastic
James made his first start since suffering a hamstring injury toward the end of December at Turf Moore on Saturday.
The 22-year-old ensured people remembered his importance by putting on an unforgettable second-half showing.
He opened the scoring with a finish of pinpoint precision, teed up thanks to some nifty footwork Lionel Messi would’ve been proud of.
It marked his fifth of the season in the Premier League; no defender has scored more.
After Kai Havertz doubled Chelsea’s lead, James then provided the German with a perfect cross that he only needed to bundle over the line.
Christian Pulisic rounded off the victory 21 minutes from time, handing Tuchel his biggest win for nearly two months.
Uncoincidentally, it was achieved with the returning right-back pulling the strings.
“Reece James comes back at the weekend, changes the dimension of the team. Phenomenal,” purred Ferdinand.
“I think he’s the first full-back to get five goals and five assists in a season in the Premier League.”
Best of the very best
If Ferdinand’s facts are correct, then that is a truly remarkable record James has set.
Especially when you consider the calibre of those who have walked before him.
Ashley Cole, Gary Neville, Branislav Ivanovic, Kyle Walker, Denis Irwin, Lauren, Stuart Pearce, Lee Dixon, Cesar Azpilicueta, Patrice Evra; none have matched the England international’s accomplishment.
Two current stars who could both reach James’ platform this term are arguably his main competitors for the role he champions.
Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joao Cancelo have similar worth from a wide station for Liverpool and Manchester City respectively.
Nobody in the division has provided more assists than Alexander-Arnold in 2021/22, whilst Cancelo tops the charts for total passes attempted (2164).
Only two out of three will make it into the PFA Team of the Year; our vote obviously goes to Reece.
Keep up to date with all the latest Chelsea news and opinion by following The Chelsea Chronicle’s Facebook and Twitter accounts
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
