Reece James was all smiles as he spoke to the press - ready to get his season started.
-
Getting back to it
Last season was not what the defender, or fans expected, with only glimpses of the captain with injuries plaguing his year. The 24-year-old spoke on wanting to now leave that in the past and focus on what’s coming up.
"I am in a good place now. I had a long off-season and have got a long pre-season ahead as well as I am serving a four-game ban from last season, but I’m in a good place and I am excited for the season."
James also spoke on whether he believes there is a need of captaincy change for squad balance: "I don't think so but I am not the one who makes the decisions."
-
New manager and new ways
The defender has played under multiple manager in recent years at Chelsea and touched on adapting to new tactics.
"There is a lot of adjustments to make to the new system. Whenever a new manager comes in, there’s a lot to take on board, but we are excited and I can’t wait to get started."
-
Controversy at Chelsea
Controversy has struck Chelsea again in the past week with Enzo Fernandez. Some of his teammates spoke out about his actions with Reece James being asked about his work to amend the 'riff.'
"It is obviously a really difficult situation. I think Enzo [Fernandez] acknowledged he did wrong quickly, put his hands up and apologised to the club, the team and the people it offended.
He hasn’t arrived yet so I don’t know if there is anything to amend. I’ll have to make that judgment when he comes back in and, hopefully, everyone will be on the same page so we can move forward from the situation."
-
Frustrating 16 months
Chelsea fans have missed seeing the number 24 on the pitch and what he brings to the team. James reflects exactly what the fans feel and has often voiced that on his social media.
"The last 16 months have been frustrating, whether that be suspension or injury, but I’m really excited, I feel like I’m in a good place for this season and I cannot wait to get playing and find my rhythm again."
-
Season goals
He also wasn’t afraid to share his one goal of the season:
"My goal is to stay on the pitch!"
