Chelsea captain Reece James has revealed he feels the strongest he’s felt he’s in a while following an injury plagued campaign last season.
James was ruled out for five months with a hamstring injury picked up last December, which he underwent surgery on and was subsequently limited to just 11 appearances in all competitions.
The 24-year-old is set for a key role under Enzo Maresca, and in a welcome sight he’s come through Chelsea’s first three pre-season games unscathed as he continues to build up his fitness and match sharpness ahead of the new season.
James the strongest he’s felt
James is being asked to perform a different role under the Italian which sees him invert into midfield or play on the right side of a back three when the team are in possession.
Obviously it’s going to take time for him to adapt given he’s never played this way before, but there were signs against Club America he was getting to grips with what’s being asked of him and he certainly looked more comfortable.
James is suspended for the first three games of the Premier League after picking up a red card against Brighton at the back end of last season, but everyone associated with the club will desperately be hoping he can stay fit.
A fully fit James performing at his best is a game changer for the Blues and something they missed last season despite the excellence of Malo Gusto.
In news that will please Chelsea fans James revealed that he feels the strongest he’s felt in a while ahead of the new campaign.
“I feel the strongest I’ve felt in a while. I just try to help the team as much as possible wherever I play. Even if I’m in goal, I’ll try to help!” he told Ben Jacobs at Chelsea Foundation’s Station Soccer Festival.
Next up for James and his team-mates is a game against Manchester City this weekend before the final game of the tour against Real Madrid on August 6th.
