After giving England the lead against Latvia on Monday night with a free kick, Reece James gave an explanation for why he chose not to celebrate. The full-back’s outstanding performance and outstanding goal in the first half of the game was his first start for his nation since late 2022.
After years of battling ailments, it was a victorious way to get back into the starting lineup, but he was notably taciturn in his celebrations after the ball found the back of the net. Even though his teammates surrounded him after the game, he maintained his composure and has since given an explanation in a post-match interview.
James Didn’t Celebrate As He Was Surprised
He didn’t think he’d score
The Three Lions easily defeated Latvia after James started the game and gave England the lead in the first half. Harry Kane and Eberechi Eze’s goals completed the victory for Thomas Tuchel in his second game as manager of the nation. However, it was that free-kick that got most people talking, as the ITV team interviewed the Chelsea player after full time following an incredible game.
Before being asked about his goal and the lack of celebration, he was asked about Tuchel’s influence at Chelsea and what England supporters might anticipate from the manager during his tenure as the Three Lions’ manager. He responded by saying that at first he thought the keeper could have done a better job and that he was just shocked to see the ball hit the back of the net. However, after viewing a replay, he has subsequently changed his mind. He stated in an interview with ITV:
“I felt like I could bend the wall around when I saw it, and happily I was able to strike the back of the net. It actually hit the net, which startled me a little. Looking at the replay, I thought the keeper might have made it, although it was certainly difficult.
"I was a bit surprised it hit the back of the net." 😅
First England goals for Eze and James! ⚽️👏#ITVFootball | #ThreeLions | 🎙️ @gabrielclarke05 pic.twitter.com/FKyiKAznKb
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) March 24, 2025
