Reece James has been named the new captain of Chelsea Football Club.
Reece, a lifelong Blues fan who joined our Academy at the age of six, was the club’s standout choice to lead us on and off the pitch this season. Reece James named Chelsea future captain
‘I’m overjoyed to take on this job and responsibility,’ James remarked. ‘I know I’ve got big shoes to fill since we’ve had big captains here before, but I’m eager.
‘I have spent almost my entire life at Chelsea. I started here when I was six years old, and going through the Academy is difficult. But to progress and become captain is a fantastic experience for me and my family.’
Reece James named Chelsea future captain
‘This is a choice made by myself and the club,’ said Mauricio Pochettino, the club’s head coach. We are thrilled that Reece will captain the team this season.
‘He sets a good example, and his attitude and passion to Chelsea have been evident during pre-season. He proudly wore the armband during our summer tour and is ready to take on the job of guiding our squad with his own approach and ideas.’
‘Reece’s link with Chelsea has been developed over 17 years,’ said co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart. He is aware of the club’s traditions as well as the duties that come with being captain.
‘He understands the standards required to win at this club, having spent time in both the Academy and the first squad, and it is a really proud occasion for Reece and everyone associated with the club.’
Reece, whose sister Lauren plays for our women’s team, has had a successful Academy career. He won the FA Youth Cup twice as a member of our Under-18s, the second time as captain in 2018.
A loan spell with Wigan Athletic in the Championship followed. Reece appeared in 46 games for the club, winning Player of the Year and Player’s Player of the Year. In addition, he was named captain for his final game at the DW Stadium.
Frank Lampard brought Reece into the Chelsea first team ahead of the 2019/20 season. He scored on his debut, a long-range shot against Grimsby Town, and a famous goal against Ajax in the Champions League.
In that first season, he made 37 appearances. Reece would go on to make 47 appearances for the men’s team in his second season. It was a great campaign that culminated with us winning the Champions League for the second time in our history.
Reece started the final against Manchester City in Porto and excelled from right wing-back to ensure the trophy returned to Stamford Bridge.
The following season, Reece scored six goals in 39 matches in all competitions to win the UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup. He also established himself as a prominent member of England’s squad.
Reece was limited to 24 games last season owing to injury, but he has been a regular in preseason under Mauricio Pochettino.
And the next time he wears Chelsea blue, it will be as club captain.
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