Former Chelsea defender Jason Cundy has suggested that Reece James is finally trusting his body again after years of injury setbacks — and it’s showing in his performances. In the 1–1 draw with Arsenal, James delivered a commanding display in midfield, outshining even the £100m-plus men on the pitch.
James — traditionally a right-back — controlled the tempo centrally, tracked runners tirelessly and fought through the challenge of Chelsea being reduced to 10 men after Moises Caicedo’s first-half dismissal.
“When you have injuries… it takes time just to trust your body again. I think we’re now looking at Reece, mentally, he is completely free of any fear of the body collapsing.”
Enzo Maresca has also managed his return brilliantly, carefully controlling his minutes and now stating that James is capable of playing three matches a week when needed — something that would have sounded impossible not long ago.
Focus shifts to Leeds
Chelsea’s next test comes on Wednesday night away at Leeds United — and James is unlikely to start as Maresca rotates the squad for December’s heavy schedule.
Chelsea’s last trip to Elland Road ended in a 3-0 defeat under Thomas Tuchel — a result fans would rather erase from memory. This time, they arrive unbeaten in November and with far greater resilience under Maresca.
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