Reece James happy to earn Chelsea chance | OneFootball

The increased focus on youth players at Chelsea has won plenty of fans so far this season.

With a transfer ban in place and club legend Frank Lampard at the helm, the Blues have opted to use the incredible talent coming through the club’s own ranks.

One of those involved for the first time this week was Reece James.

A right-back who joined the club at the age of seven, James impressed on loan at Wigan last season.

However, a serious knee injury kept him out of the side until this week’s EFL Cup defeat of Grimsby.

James was finally given his chance in the 7-1 win and made the most of it, scoring once and assisting twice in a dream debut performance. But just a few months ago he didn’t even know if he’d be at Stamford Bridge this season.

“At the time I wasn’t sure because the team did well last season, winning the Europa League,” James told Goal after the win.

“I decided to take it as it comes really and when I found out I was staying, I was obviously happy. I’m glad I’m getting my chance.

“Of course, looking at other young players getting a chance gives you a boost.”

The likes of Mason Mount, Tammy Abraham and Fikayo Tomori have all made the step into Lampard’s first team this season and look set to become mainstays.

Jumping up to Premier League standard isn’t easy, though.

“I’m learning every day because I’ve not played at this level before,” James admitted. “There are little bits here and there where they help me on the performance side and show me how it’s done.

“Positioning, everything.

“Where to go where the ball is on the other side. There’s loads of little things.

“I’m not sure what’s going to happen in the weeks ahead. I have to take it as it comes. If I’m involved, then I’ll be happy, and if I’m not, I’ll play again.”

With Cesar Azpilicueta now 30, there are sure to be many opportunities for James to impress in the near future.