Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has jumped to the defence of his captain Reece James.
Reece James was criticised for his performance in Chelsea‘s 2-1 defeat to Manchester United on Wednesday and was sent off in his side’s 4-1 loss to Newcastle United towards the end of last month.
However, Mauricio Pochettino told the Evening Standard and the rest of the English media in his recent pre-match press conference that the right-back is not to blame for the Blues’ struggles.
Chelsea are not on a great run, winning just one out of their last four Premier League games, but they have a chance to improve their record when they take on Everton later today.
Mauricio Pochettino refuses to blame Reece James
Pochettino thinks it would be wrong to single out James, suggesting that Chelsea are struggling collectively.
Speaking to the Evening Standard and other outlets, the Argentine said: “I think the priority for Reece now is to build his confidence and fitness and work towards completing 90 minutes.
“Of course, we are competing and want to win, but what’s best for Reece is time and giving him game time. If not, it is difficult for him to be fit. If you ask me about both games [Newcastle and United] I think we cannot blame him and need to blame everyone. If you didn’t win, it is because something collective didn’t work.”
Will Reece James’ form improve this season?
Without a doubt. In fact, James actually started the campaign pretty strongly. He really impressed in Chelsea’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool back in August.
According to WhoScored, he completed two key passes on the day. Only Dominik Szoboszlai’s recorded more (three).
However, because of injury and suspension, James has lost a bit of momentum at times, which seems to be the case now.
Th 24-year-old is such a good player that you would expect him to find his feet again soon, as long as he can stay fit.
When you look at this Chelsea side, James is honestly the least of their problems. The best footballers go through a dip and that seems to be happening with the England international at present.
The Blues’ biggest issue right now is probably Nicolas Jackson not being a consistent goalscorer. That No.9 position is the thing that really needs addressing at Stamford Bridge.
