As Chelsea’s players took to the field against Liverpool, there was one man who was noticeably absent: Reece James, the club’s usually indefatigable right-back. But finally, after months of rehabilitation, James was back, claiming the captain’s armband from Enzo Fernandez and making his first start of the season.
In his first press conference since James’ return, head coach Enzo Maresca was blunt in his assessment of the Englishman’s performance. “I expect more from him, more in terms of leadership inside the changing room,” Maresca declared. “He’s on the way, he’s doing well, he’s progressing, but I expect more. It’s not because you’re the captain that I should give you more, it’s because you’re the captain that you have to give more.”
Maresca’s words carry weight, coming as they do from a coach who himself has made an impact on social media, recently joining Instagram and encouraging fans to follow him. Indeed, it’s hard to imagine the tumultuous early days of the season, when Chelsea’s performances were marred by inconsistencies and defensive lapses, being replicated with this fresh impetus.
But there’s no doubt that Maresca is pushing James to be more than just a good player – he wants his captain to be a leader. And while the 24-year-old has undoubtedly been a catalyst for success in the past, it’s clear that his mentor sees room for growth. James will face stiff competition for the captain’s armband, with midfielder Joe Morrell also staking a claim.
The Blues’ head coach, however, is acutely aware that James’ is not the only one who could be doing more. “He’s a reserved guy, but not only him,” Maresca said, highlighting a lack of leaders in the squad. Tosin Adarabioyo, a veteran defender, was singled out as one of the few players who demonstrates the kind of selfless, by-the-book leadership that the Blues may sorely need as they look to build on their recent results.
Chelsea’s 4-1 thrashing of Panathinaikos in the Conference League was a welcome respite from the September wobbles, and with the club now seventh in the Premier League, the mood is marginally more optimistic. As the Blues prepare to host Newcastle at Stamford Bridge this weekend, Maresca will expect more from his captain, and perhaps from every single one of his players, as he strives to galvanize his troops and propel them up the table.
