Reece James appears to have already made a great impression on Mauricio Pochettino – no more than a week after the new Chelsea manager's appointment. The 23-year-old defender is expected to play a major role in the Argentine's starting lineup this season as the Blues hope to rejoin the Premier League title race.
The west Londoners endured a miserable campaign last term, finishing in the bottom half of the English top-flight. Chelsea also failed to make it past the third round in each of the domestic cup competition, while switching between four different managers.
During this period, James picked up numerous injuries and Chelsea certainly felt the ramifications of his absence. All in all, the England international featured 24 times for the Blues, starting just 14 times.
Determined to ensure that he remains injury-free, James has reportedly been working particularly hard behind the scenes – and it hasn't gone unnoticed by Pochettino. According to The Athletic, the Cobham graduate flew to Dubai shortly after the season came to an end.
The report states that, while the trip was partly a break, it was geared more towards warm-weather training. It's said that he worked with a personal trainer he knows to 'up the intensity further still'.
James' efforts have been recognised by Pochettino and, with Chelsea in need of a new captain, it's certainly given the 51-year-old something to think about. In his first interview as Chelsea manager, the Pochettino said: "We need leaders, not followers, in every single area and we will push every person to bring their best and give their best for the club.
"If we are all together, we are going to be very strong. We have an unbelievable squad and for sure are going to bring players with commitment who want to be part of it also. With the fans and everyone, we can find again the way to be successful."
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According to the Evening Standard, Pochettino will make a final decision on his new captain towards the end of pre-season once he's established a stronger relationship with his players. He already has a few candidates in mind – one of which being James.
The report states that Thiago Silva is a 'clear frontrunner' to take over having previously taken the armband in Cesar Azpilicueta's absence. It's believed that Raheem Sterling and Kepa Arrizabalaga are also joined by James and Silva on Pochettino's list.
