“I’m just happy”: Reece James opens up on injury battle & preferred role as Chelsea face Bournemouth | OneFootball

Chelsea defender Reece James has made it clear that he’s ready to play in whatever role the manager asks of him as long as he’s on the pitch helping the team.

The Blues skipper has been through the wringer on the injury front over the past few seasons, but has now been fit for over a year.

With Chelsea set to take on Bournemouth at Vitality Stadium later this evening, James believes he’s in a much better place fitness-wise.

Chelsea are looking to bounce back from a shocking 3-1 defeat against Leeds United at Elland Road in midweek – a game James was left out of.

However, he’s expected to return to the starting line-up against Bournemouth.

He’ll likely slot into midfield once again after his exceptional performance in the 1-1 draw against Arsenal, but insists he has no preferred role at the moment.

“I don’t really have a preference to be honest,” James said in a Chelsea interview.

“I’ve played so much in both now, maybe if you asked me a year ago, I probably would have had a preference, but the more I’ve kind of played half-and-half in both roles.

“I’m just happy to be back on the pitch and helping the team.”

Before missing the trip to Yorkshire, James had featured in every Premier League fixture this season and had been named in the starting line-up nine times.

The English defender has made 17 appearances in the Premier League and Champions League combined, returning a goal and four assists.

He has also created five big chances in the Premier League.

“I feel very strong at the moment, playing consistently helps a lot,” James said.

“Start and stop, with the injuries, it’s hard to find a rhythm. Good form and good performances come from consistency and being available week in, week out.

“I’m finally stringing a decent period together.

“I wouldn’t say there’s much difference in what I’m doing now. I just think I understand my body a lot better now than maybe two years ago.

“For sure, it was tough. I think it’s definitely had a positive effect, even though it was a negative situation.”