Joe Cole was ‘delighted’ with the progress Chelsea showed in their Champions League victory over AC Milan and heaped praise on ‘sublime’ Reece James.
Chelsea recorded their first European win under Graham Potter on Wednesday as goals from James, Wesley Fofana and Aubameyang saw the Blues outclass AC Milan.
Chelsea lost their opening European fixture in Thomas Tuchel’s last match in charge and were held to a 1-1 draw in Potter’s first game as the new manager.
But Chelsea’s Champions League campaign kicked into full gear with an emphatic victory over AC Milan.
Cole told BT Sport: ‘There was a massive gulf in class between the two teams tonight. It was a routine win for Chelsea.
‘It was very disappointing from Milan actually because they threw the towel in towards the end of the goal. That won’t sit well for Milan fans.
‘But Chelsea were great, Reece James was sublime all night, there’s not enough superlatives for that man.
‘It was so routine for Chelsea. To do that to an AC Milan shows we’re going in the right direction so I’m absolutely delighted.’
Former Chelsea forward Eniola Aluko added: ‘Reece James is so smart with his goal.
‘He waits for the overlap to happen and the strike is great. It’s such an intelligent finish. He was the best player on the pitch in the second half.’
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand, meanwhile, believes momentum is now building at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea also coming out on top in the Premier League game at Crystal Palace.
He said: ‘There was pressure on Chelsea tonight because they haven’t been great in the Champions League. You have to get the points on the board at home.
‘They didn’t just win, they were even able to rest some players towards the end ahead of this weekend’s game.
‘Momentum is key and they’re starting to build that I think. The crowd will be happy with what they saw today. It’s another step in the right direction.’
