‘Said it from day one’ - the classy Reece James verdict amid Chelsea and Liverpool player debate

Chelsea got their Champions League campaign off the ground after an impressive 3-0 win over Italian Champions AC Milan at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.

But there is no denying the fact that the hero of the night was Reece James who provided an assist to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for the second goal and then sealed victory with a brilliant strike to confirm their first win in the group and take them second.

Alexander-Arnold reminded every one of his immense quality when he scored a free-kick against Rangers on Tuesday night to set Liverpool on their way to victory but Reece James provides the full package, defending and attacking in equal proposition.

Against Milan he was up against the highly-rated Rafael Leao who got the better of him in the first half, but in the second half, James was on it and delivered one of the best displays from a full-back at Stamford Bridge in recent history.

He was aggressive out of possession and effective in possession exemplified by his two bursting runs into the Milan box that delivered a goal and an assist.

The 22-year-old has many admirers including England manager Gareth Southgate who has made him his preferred choice in the right wing-back spot.

Trevor Chalobah who has been training with James says there is no doubting his ability and he’s probably the best in the world at the moment.

He told reporters after the Milan game: “Yes, we are lucky to have him. He is an unbelievable player who can do all sides of the game.

“He can defend, get us goals and get us assists. It is a pleasure to play with him. Yes definitely [one of the best in the world]. I’ve said it from day one. Right now, he could be the best in the world.”

Chelsea have always chopped and changed managers but James is providing to be the stability that they need and with a contract that runs until 2028, his reputation is growning at home and abroad. The World Cup is around the corner, he certainly is at the peak of his powers to help England to glory in Qatar and help Chelsea to a successful year.