National media drop their Reece James verdict after Chelsea defender’s display vs Andorra
Chelsea’s Reece James earned his 20th England cap in their win against Andorra on Friday evening. The national media then delivered an interesting verdict on his individual performance.
England produced a professional display at Villa Park to beat Andorra 2-0 in a World Cup qualifier. Next, the Three Lions travel to Serbia on Tuesday night for what should be a much trickier fixture.
Chelsea star Reece James, 25, started for Thomas Tuchel’s England side at right-back in their weekend victory.
We didn’t see too much from the Blues star in a defensive capacity during the one-sided contest. However, he showed glimpses of his attacking quality, including a glorious assist from the right wing into the box for Declan Rice’s goal.
Earlier this week, Darren Bent picked England’s best XI, which included James at full-back. If he’s fit, we would definitely have him starting as the national side’s best right-back.
National media give verdict on Reece James’ England display
After England’s victory at home to Andorra, various national media publications delivered their verdict on the performance of Chelsea captain James.
The Daily Express wrote: “Reece James – 8/10. Made a couple of smart crosses, which were England’s best source of attack, including the assist for Declan Rice’s header. He looked assured as he staked his claim to battle Trent Alexander-Arnold for a starting spot under Thomas Tuchel.”
Meanwhile, The Telegraph said: “Reece James – 7/10. When given the opportunity to cross, he delivered a perfect cross for Declan Rice’s header, showing why Thomas Tuchel rates him so highly. Clearly in Tuchel’s plans as it was a strong team picked.”
Finally, BBC Sport claimed: “Reece James – 7/10. A big favourite of Thomas Tuchel and seems to have the right-back position secured. Showed his quality on the ball and assisted Declan Rice for the second goal with an excellent cross.”
Back in March, James hailed Tuchel by naming him as the best manager he’s ever worked with. Therefore, he must be delighted to be playing for him again.
If we’re predicting Tuchel’s strongest England line-up when everyone’s fit, Chelsea’s James slots into the team at right-back. His main competition right now probably comes from Real Madrid’s Trent Alexander-Arnold or Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento, but the existing relationship with the Three Lions boss feels vital.
Reece James statistics vs Andorra
As displayed below, James put in an eye-catching international performance during England’s success against Andorra.
| Minutes played | Assist | Touches | Accurate passes | Chances created | Tackles | Ground duels won | Fouls committed | Match rating |
| 68 | 1 | 100 | 75/82 (91%) | 2 | 2 | 4/5 (80%) | 1 | 8.2 |
He’s one of the most complete full-backs of his generation because he does every aspect of the game soundly.
Of course, James’ injury record is still something that people worry about, even if he’s bounced back in 2025 very well. Blues head coach Enzo Maresca deserves credit for the way he has looked after his minutes to keep him around the group for an extended period now.
from Chelsea FC Latest News & Club Updates | The Chelsea Chronicle https://ift.tt/OY5R9Cl
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