Rio Ferdinand has given a glowing verdict on Chelsea defender Reece James after selecting him as the Premier League’s young player of the season.
James, who had an injury-hit campaign for the London side, has been absolutely brilliant when available to play.
He’s at his very best in his preferred right wing-back role, though. And his contribution in the Premier League this season is five goals and six assists in 22 league games.
Ferdinand waxed lyrical about the quality of the England star, he said: “I’m going to go Reece James [for Premier League young player of the season]. I just think the importance that he has in this team, when he doesn’t play in that team now they miss him massively. He has a massive impact in that team.
“I watched him at Old Trafford the other day… he was treating some Man United players like boys. That’s how good he is, how comfortable he looks now.
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“I’ve seen him on loan at Wigan playing centre-back, playing in midfield. He’s so versatile. His passing range is off the charts.
“Just his all-round general play, the composure, the physicality, his defending one-v-one. I think he’s got everything.”
It’s been another rollercoaster campaign at Stamford Bridge both on and off the pitch, but the rise of James into becoming a better player has to be one of the highlights.
According to reports, the wing-back is in line for a new Chelsea contract, something which is an absolute no-brainer for the 22-year-old.