Mauricio Pochettino has just publicly backed one Chelsea individual by claiming he’ll definitely be one of the best players in the Premier League next season.
It’s been a pretty tough campaign at Stamford Bridge for this inconsistent Blues side, but there’s been some outstanding performers and a current run of four straight wins has lifted them to sixth in the league table.
Cole Palmer, who’s nominated for Premier League Player of the Season, is the obvious standout at Chelsea this year. The likes of Conor Gallagher, Malo Gusto and Moises Caicedo have quietly put together decent campaigns, too.
Interestingly, Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino was speaking about a different member of his squad on Friday when he tipped him to be an elite performer in the league next season.
Mauricio Pochettino backs talented Chelsea player
Pochettino has spoken very positively today about Chelsea’s Reece James. In fact, he’s said that the 24-year-old club captain will be back to his best next season.
The right-back has only played 11 times across all competitions this campaign, largely down to injury. Also, the red straight card he picked up in Wednesday night’s win over Brighton means he’s suspended for Sunday’s final day versus Bournemouth, plus he’ll miss the first three fixtures at the start of next season.
Chelsea’s manager has given the England full-back a big vote of confidence when speaking about what lies ahead for him next season.
When asked about James in his press conference, Pochettino said via Chelsea’s YouTube channel: “It was a really difficult season, but we need to help him move on and accept the punishment (suspension).
“The most important thing is we back him. We trust him. He needs to be ready for pre-season to start to train and build his fitness.
“The talent is there. Next season, he’s going to be for sure one of the best players again in the Premier League.”
Reece James can be one of the Premier League’s best
The Chelsea Chronicle agrees that James has the ability to be one of the Premier League’s top stars.
On his day, he’s as good as any right-back in the world. He’s a superb attacking threat with goals and assists, while defensively he’s so strong 1v1.
However, he needs to improve his injury record, plus his discipline, to sit on the top table of players.
READ MORE: Didier Drogba sent a message to Reece James after his Chelsea comeback against Nottingham Forest earlier this month
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