HE’S NO.1 IN HYPE PARADE
But Tuch tells Reece he has much to learn
THOMAS TUCHEL says Reece James is “far from” being the finished article.
The Chelsea wing-back has been outstanding this season with four goals and four assists, which has made him a first choice for club and country.
He has quickly become a player for all positions as he can play in Tuchel’s back-three system, step up into midfield and has played as a traditional centre-half.
However, Tuchel says it is vital the England star does not let the hype go to his head and he keeps his feet on the ground rather than listen to him being tagged “as the best in Europe”.
The Chelsea boss said: “For me, I see no reason why we should now get carried away and think about things like, ‘Is he the best in the world, the best in England or the best in Europe?’
“This does not help us.
“I’m happy when he tries to be the best Reece James today in training.
“If he plays, he needs to be the best version of himself in the best position. He can play in a back three, as a wing-back and for England he played in a midfield position.
“He did for us when we played in Aston Villa last year. He is improving. He takes responsibility and it is needed. He is far from finished in his development.
“He is super young, has all the potential to be a big and important player for Chelsea. He is on his way. “Not more and obviously not less. I feel him dedicated and hungry for more. This is what we want. “Right now he plays as a wing-back. He does this on a very high level.”
James, 21, has blossomed for England despite the competition, as no other country has such strength in depth at rightback, with Kieran Trippier, Kyle Walker and Trent Alexander-arnold all playing at the highest level. But James’ influence is growing for Chelsea, who will look to gain revenge on Juventus for defeat in Turin, clinch qualification and top their group. Tuchel said: “Firstly and foremost, we do what we do when we play football games – we try to win them. This will not change. Okay, late in the game, if the scoresheet is a draw, we will maybe not allow Edou Mendy (inset) to go in the opponents’ box when we have a late corner because we will not risk our qualification to go all in if the situation is like this. “Until this moment we will try everything to win the game and have a chance to win the group.”