“I’ve found it a lot easier” – Reece James reveals where he’s improving having been previously criticised | OneFootball

Reece James has admitted he’s finding it easier to lead the team now that he’s fit and playing regularly once again.

James has been plagued by injury issues over the last few seasons, but that finally appears to be a thing of the past.

Since returning from hamstring surgery in January, James has managed to stay fit, which has been a huge boost for both him and Chelsea.

Reece James finding leadership easier now he’s fit

Enzo Maresca has confirmed James is now ready to play three games a week, and the Italian deserves credit for the way he’s slowly built James’ fitness back up.

James has featured in all 11 of Chelsea’s Premier League games, starting seven and appearing as a substitute in the other four.

The 25-year-old scored on his 200th appearance for the club in the 3-0 win against Nottingham Forest last month.

James has appeared in every league game so far this season. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

James is not only helping the team now he’s fit again, he’s also looking like more of a leader, something he admitted he’s finding easier now he’s back playing.

“For me, the hardest thing for me was to lead when I wasn’t playing,” he told The Standard.

“But now I’ve been playing on a regular basis for a decent period.

“I’ve found it a lot easier while playing regularly to grow as a captain and coming here.

“I try to learn from other captains and more experienced players.”

Enzo Maresca called out his captain last season

You can clearly see how the right back is developing as a captain, and Maresca will certainly be delighted to see his progress.

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The former Leicester boss called James out last season over a lack of leadership, but you can now see he commands the respect of his team-mates, and is a reference point for the young squad.

The Chelsea captain is currently on England duty and is preparing for World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania, with the Three Lions already assured of their place at the World Cup next summer.