Reece James has been named as Chelsea’s new captain in place of Cesar Azpilicueta, a club legend
After Azpilicueta left the Blues after 11 years to join Atletico Madrid on a free transfer earlier this summer, the 23-year-old will hold the armband. James has been a Chelsea employee for nearly seven years after joining the West London team when he was just six years old.
The full-back, who represents England internationally, has advanced through the Chelsea first team’s academy ranks. James is regarded as one of the top right backs in European football after making 147 appearances for the Blues, scoring 11 goals and providing 20 assists.
The defender is now able to fulfil a childhood dream after years of preparation by the Chelsea administration for a leadership position at the club.
James had a disastrous season in 2017—he only managed two goals and two assists in 24 games across all competitions, and his season was plagued by ongoing physical issues.
The former Wigan loanee will be hoping to make an impact this season as Chelsea looks to recover their reputation as a footballing powerhouse after a terrible campaign. This Saturday, when Chelsea hosts Liverpool at Stamford Bridge in their Premier League season opener, James might start as the club’s captain for the first time.
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