Chelsea were not able to win anything during Frank Lampard’s time as manager, but they may have him to partly thank for their recent success.
Last season, Chelsea were able to win both the Conference League and Club World Cup trophies.
Cole Palmer inspired the Blues to victory in both finals so deserves most of the credit for the team’s success.
However, Reece James also played his part and is now captain of his boyhood club. The man who laid the path for James? Lampard, exactly six years ago.
Frank Lampard handed Reece James Chelsea debut
James was only 19 at the time and just returning from an ankle injury, but that did not stop Lampard from putting his trust in the defender.
In a third-round Carabao Cup tie against Grimsby Town, Lampard started James and was not let down by the teenager.
James put in a terrific performance, scoring a sublime goal in a 7-1 win, and as they say, the rest is history.
Since then, James has gone on to make almost 200 appearances for Chelsea, and it would have been much more had it not been for injuries.
As well as the Club World Cup and Conference League, he has also won the Champions League and UEFA Super Cup in a blue shirt.
James is now firmly a fan favourite at Stamford Bridge, constantly impressing when he is fit.
All of the above has been made possible because of Lampard, who was willing to give him a chance that day, which the right-back grabbed with both hands, not looking back since.
Reece James on his Chelsea debut
James has achieved a lot since that game against Grimsby, but it is a match that he will never forget.
Speaking to Chelsea’s official club website after making his senior debut in 2019, the England international said: “It was a dream come true for me. I’ve played for this club since I was seven and it’s always been what I’ve wanted to do.
“Playing at Stamford Bridge in front of all the fans was the best part of the night for me and it was a great atmosphere. I think all the fans could see the Academy players involved and they showed their support to us, which was a great feeling.”
Having already won the Champions League, James’ next dream has to be getting his hands on the Premier League title.
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