Reece James has shared insights into the guidance his fellow Chelsea teammate Thiago Silva provided him after the righback assumed the captaincy role at the club.
After Cesar Azpilicueta’s departure in the summer, James was appointed the new Chelsea captain, making him the youngest captain in the Premier League at only 23. The role marked another significant milestone for James who’s had to progress through the academy ranks at Chelsea.
Despite grappling with fitness challenges this season, the England international acknowledges teammate Silva as a significant source of support in terms of leadership during his absence from the side.
“The captaincy has been great, but it was difficult when I wasn’t fit because it is hard to affect things as much when I’m not with the group all the time.
“Thiago probably helps me the most whenever I’m unsure, or I feel like I need advice on something. He is nearly old enough to be my dad! So he is the person I go to.
“It’s not for me to say what sort of captain I am, but I’ve enjoyed it so far. It’s an honour.”
Left out of England’s latest squad due to fitness issues, James who has started only three Premier League games this season opened up on his road to recovery and expressed feeling better than he has in a long time.
“I haven’t felt this good in a long time. I definitely feel my strength and fitness building up again.
“Recently, I’ve been able to play consistently. I haven’t been able to play 90 minutes yet, but I’m training and playing hard, and pushing the limits every day to get back to my best level.
“I’m happy to be helping the team again as well. After almost three months out, it takes a while to build back up and find your form again. Some people think as soon as you come back you should instantly be at the level you left at, but it doesn’t work like that.
“You have to move slow and steady. That’s what I have been doing. I’m slowly progressing”
In his last three starts for Chelsea, James helped the Blues to two victories- against Tottenham and Blackburn- and a hard-fought draw against Manchester City.
He will hope to continue with his consistency when the Premier League returns over the weekend, starting with their game against Newcastle on Saturday.
