It was a glorious return to international duty for Reece James. He opened the scoring in England’s 3-0 rout of Latvia—his first goal for the national side. The performance of the Chelsea defender was one of the main talking points of the match, notably his deftly curled free-kick which opened the scoring. This goal was an important milestone for James, who has endured a tough past two-and-a-half years dealing with injury issues. England new boss Thomas Tuchel – following on from winning the UEFA Champions League with London club Chelsea. He praised James, claiming him a player of “highest quality” and reasserting his versatility and skill.
James’s road back to the England squad has been littered with injuries and misfortune. During the two most recent full seasons that he played, he had to sit out 60 games total from nagging hamstring problems. For all these obstacles in his way, his eventual name in Tuchel’s initial squad caught most by surprise. Tuchel’s confidence in James was justified, as the right-back perfectly proved his capability to perform at the top level. His performance against Latvia showcased not only his defensive capabilities but his prowess on the ball, making him an asset in both midfield and defensive roles.
A Memorable Goal
James’s goal was especially sweet as it came in his first start for England in over two years. It was expertly curled into the top corner, with the Latvian keeper powerless to prevent it.
"I saw the wall and felt I could bend it around, thankfully it hit the back of the net," James commented post-match.
In his post-game comments, he said he was surprised and delighted to score, given the challenges he’d experienced in recent years.
"I've been waiting for that moment for a long time," he shared. "I made my debut many years ago and thankfully I managed to score. It means a lot more to me. The last two and a half years have been a struggle. I had lots of injuries and it has been tough."
For James, it was a dream individual victory as he netted that goal himself. So he chose not to rejoice, because he was thinking about his tough road to health and shape.
Tuchel's Confidence in James
The arrival of Thomas Tuchel as England gaffer injected some much-needed pizzazz. Southgate’s real masterstroke was pulling up Reece James, as another key player, Trent Alexander-Arnold, fell out with an injury. Tuchel has been full of praise for James’s talent, adding that the player is sharp, focused and tips the training sessions as one of the best.
"There cannot be any doubt about Reece's quality, it's the highest level," Tuchel remarked.
His faith in James was clear still as it was on the 18-year-old that he turned to in his first camp as England boss.
"I know the quality he has in that foot – it's amazing," Tuchel added.
James's adaptability on the field allows him to be used as a hybrid midfielder, adding depth and flexibility to England's lineup. That versatility was on display against Latvia, when McKennie was the USMNT’s most impactful player defensively and in attack.
Overcoming Challenges
It’s been a challenging couple of years for Reece James at Chelsea. Injury issues have made it difficult for him to consistently be on the field. This campaign, the most matches he’s started in all competitions is just 10. The string of disappointments has been disheartening for the developing player, but his perseverance and resolve have not escaped attention.
James’s debut on the national team stage is a testament to his emerging brilliance in the sport. It further serves to demonstrate his fierce determination, even in the depths of despair. Though he’s had a lack of appearances at the club level, his form and fitness with Tuchel’s keen eye over him have been nothing less than admirable. The England manager's decision to include him in the squad reflects a strategic move to harness James's talent for the national side.
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