Enzo Maresca reveals reason for surprise Reece James decision
- James lined up at left-back for Chelsea's 2-1 win over Newcastle at Stamford Bridge
- The 24-year-old shifted to opposite flank as Malo Gusto switched to right side
- Maresca explains tactical tweak after demanding better leadership from James pre-game
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has opened up on his reasons for playing captain Reece James at left-back during Sunday's 2-1 win over Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge.
The Englishman has played at right-back, right wing-back and even as an emergency centre-back for Chelsea, but has rarely been utilised on the left by any of his previous managers. But against Newcastle in his second start since recovering from injury, James was asked to play there as Malo Gusto took over duties on the right.
The switch paid off for Maresca as goals from Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer rendered Alexander Isak's first half strike insignificant, with the former Leicester City boss explaining after the game that Chelsea had targeted that side to attack - Palmer also lined up on that flank rather than playing centrally or off the right wing as he so often has.
“I think it worked top,” Maresca said of his tactical tweak. “We tried to do something different. We moved Reece in the left side and we also tried, for the first time this season, Cole in the left pocket.
“It was his first game [there] and the reason was for us to try to attack on that side. And also to have Malo in the right pocket. I think it worked very well.”
Maresca had publicly revealed prior to the game that James needed to show better leadership inside Chelsea's dressing room, suggesting that the 24-year-old "needs to make an effort" in order to become a better skipper.
“I spoke with Reece many times, even when he was injured at the start of the season,” Maresca continued in his post-match press conference. “I really love and I really like Reece. The only thing I was saying the other day and I repeat again is that from the captains, I expect more.
“You are a captain for a reason and you have to show it every day. Inside the pitch, Reece is a top player.”
Victory on Sunday continued Chelsea's impressive start to the new season. The Blues sit fifth in the Premier League after winning five of their opening nine games, while they are making good progress in the Conference League after thumping Greek giants Panathinaikos 4-1 on Thursday night.
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