“Leads by example” – Robert Sanchez reveals which Chelsea player is always first out to training | OneFootball

Robert Sanchez has revealed Chelsea captain Reece James leads by example and is always the first player out at training.

James, who came through the ranks at Cobham was named Chelsea captain by Mauricio Pochettino at the start of the 2023/2024 campaign.

The 26-year-old has really matured into the leadership role, and is now very much the leader of this young Chelsea squad.

Robert Sanchez reveals Reece James is first out to training

James has seemingly put his injury issues of the past few seasons behind him, and has been regularly available this season.

He’s missed the last three games, but returned to the starting line-up for Friday’s win against Hull City in the FA Cup.

James has put in some impressive performances this season. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)

James has been used at both right back and in midfield this season to great effect, and is obviously a real fan favourite.

The skipper has made 31 appearances in all competitions this season, and Sanchez has revealed he’s always the first out to training.

“Reece [James]. The captain has to be, he leads by example,” he said in a Q&A on Chelsea’s website.

James will hope to find himself in the starting line-up once again for Chelsea’s next Premier League game on Saturday against Burnley at Stamford Bridge.

Mamadou Sarr impresses against Hull City

Whilst James returned to action against Hull, Mamadou Sarr impressed on his first start since being recalled from Strasbourg.

The 20-year-old knows Rosenior well having worked under him for 18 months at Strasbourg, and he looked very impressive against Hull.

More Stories / Latest News

“Leads by example” – Robert Sanchez reveals which Chelsea player is always first out to training

15th Feb 2026, 11:30am

Report: Chelsea one of three Champions League clubs interested in 18 goal striker

15th Feb 2026, 11:00am

Former Man United star tells Chelsea they have the strongest player in world football

15th Feb 2026, 10:30am

Sarr was calm and composed and showed his impressive range of passing, and it will be interesting to see what further opportunities he gets over the second half of the season.

Currently Wesley Fofana and Trevoh Chalobah are Chelsea’s first choice centre back pairing, but if Sarr continues to impress he has a chance of forcing his way in.