PL great lavishes praise on impressive Chelsea star; questions his exclusion from playing XI

Rio Ferdinand surprised Reece James is not a regular feature for Thomas Tuchel’s Chelsea

Speaking to BT Sport (h/t Football.london), Rio Ferdinand has expressed his surprise that Thomas Tuchel does not use Reece James regularly at Chelsea.

The youngster enjoyed an excellent breakout season last time under Frank Lampard and has also made a name for himself on the international stage.

“He’s a top player and I’ll be honest, I was very surprised he didn’t start as soon as Tuchel came in.”

James started just one of Tuchel’s first three games in charge, the 1-0 win away to Tottenham Hotspur. The German has often played three at the back preferring to use Callum Hudson-Odoi as his right wing-back.

Ferdinand has a high opinion of James and believes he is one of the best right-backs in the league. Having played with world-class stars at Manchester United and England, the 42-year-old’s praise is no small thing.

“If he’s watching the videos, this kid is up there with the best right-backs in the league.”

Adept going forward and also in defence, James is a dominating figure down the right flank. Add to it his prowess on set-pieces, and the Blues have a talented young star in the making.

Ferdinand also praised the youngster’s attitude and believes he is the all-round package.

“He’s a young kid got great attitude and his delivery of the ball is phenomenal and as an all-round package as a right-back he’s got a lot.”

While we understand Ferdinand’s sentiment, it is still too early in Tuchel’s reign to make a case against his treatment of James. The German is just two weeks into what is an initial 18-month long contract.

James is certainly a talented player and has the tools at his disposal to go a loogn way in his career. As long as he keeps improving as he has done so far, there is no reason as to why Tuchel will not see his value and make him a first team regular.