Following Reece James’ first start for England since 2022 in the 3-0 victory over Latvia, England boss Thomas Tuchel made a statement regarding whether he views the 25-year-old as a potential midfield player. Fans demanded that Tuchel start the full-back in the back instead of Trent Alexander-Arnold when the 2026 World Cup rolled around because of his outstanding performance, which included an amazing free-kick.
After James made an impression against Copenhagen in the UEFA Conference League, his manager, Enzo Maresca, has stated that he always intended to move his captain up the pitch. The Three Lions manager has now expressed his thoughts on the future of his former Chelsea player.
Tuchel Downplays James Midfield Suggestions
The German believes that James can only play further up the pitch in games his team dominates
During his news conference after the game, Tuchel was asked if he believed Maresca’s decision to try to shape the England international into a midfielder and if he could see James playing in a more advanced role under him. The 51-year-old acknowledged that James could play more forward in games where his team controlled the ball, like as against Latvia, but he dismissed the idea in scenarios where the game is more open and he could be exposed.
“I believe we considered using him in midfield, but that was quite infrequently considered with Chelsea. In my opinion, he can play as a hybrid midfielder in the final 20 minutes of a dominant game like the one we played today. He can come from either the left or right full-back position and contribute to the overload because of his ability to accelerate with his passes.
“I’m not sure if that would work out well for him once it’s an open game with lots of midfield transitions. Reece’s talent is undeniable in and of itself. It is the top level.
Thomas Tuchel on whether he sees Reece James as a right back or midfielder… 👀 [@HaytersTV] pic.twitter.com/qmhvANl5SQ
— CFC-Blues (@CFCBlues_com) March 24, 2025
Following Gareth Southgate’s trial with Alexander-Arnold at the Euros, when he formed a double pivot in front of the back four with Declan Rice, there is conjecture that James may switch from full-back to midfield. However, after receiving a lot of criticism for the attempts, the plans were shelved after the Liverpool star started the first two games. Kobbie Mainoo replaced him in the engine room during the competition’s knockout stages.
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