Huge praise for influential Chelsea star as Ian Wright issues world-class verdict and makes PSG comparison

Ian Wright has waxed lyrical about Chelsea right wing-back Reece James, declaring him as one of the best players in the world in his position and praising the traits he can offer Graham Potter.

James was extremely unlucky to pick up a knee injury in October which kept him out of action for several months. This saw him miss the World Cup, where he would have undoubtedly played a role for England.

The wide man returned for Chelsea during the 2-0 win over Bournemouth on December 27. However, his comeback match was interrupted in the second half when he felt pain in his knee and had to be substituted.

James had to spend another month recovering. He is now back in the Chelsea squad, having featured in their last two league outings.

Having the 23-year-old fit for the remainder of the season will be crucial if Potter is to drag Chelsea up the Premier League table. They sit in 10th place, four points behind the top six and 10 points off the top four.

During an appearance on The Kelly and Wrighty Show, former Arsenal striker Wright has sung the praises of James. He believes the Blues ace is in the top two players in the world in his position when fully fit, with only Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi up there alongside him.

“He’s got everything,” the pundit declared. “Defending, attacking, technical ability. Everything.

“Everything in respects of a right-back right now, I think him and Hakimi are the best in the world right now. He’s just brilliant, he’s a fantastic player.”

Reece James easily one of Chelsea’s most important players

This is big praise from Wright. But it is justified, as over the past few seasons James has emerged into an integral player for Chelsea.

When him and Ben Chilwell have been out, the Blues have lacked creativity from wide areas.

There are some other right-backs who might be deserving of a shout, such as Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joao Cancelo. Although, Alexander-Arnold may be held back by his defending, which has been heavily criticised this season, while Cancelo tended to operate as more of a left midfielder for Manchester City.

James, in contrast to Alexander-Arnold, is arguably just as good at defending as he is at attacking. He has sublime strength and speed which help him deal with electric attackers. He also possesses great positioning.

Chelsea have raised some eyebrows by landing Malo Gusto from Lyon. He was signed in January but will spend the rest of the season back on loan at the French side.

Gusto has great potential and will believe he should get regular minutes for Chelsea. Therefore, James could be set for some serious competition going forward.

But this should only help to make the England international better. Plus, it will allow Potter to use James as a right centre-half if needed. He has played there on occasion and looked very comfortable.

Meanwhile, there has been an update on Chelsea’s hunt to sign loanee Joao Felix permanently from Atletico Madrid.