Micah Richards names Chelsea’s best player this season - and it isn’t Enzo Fernandez

Popular pundit Micah Richards has named the man who he believes is the best player currently signed to Chelsea - none other than Reece James. He feels that the Blues have suffered in his absence, noting their extensive injury list.

The Chelsea academy graduate made his return to the senior team after a lengthy injury layoff during Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal, replacing Cole Palmer in the 84th minute. While he is still not fully match fit, his cameo appearance was reason enough for Chelsea fans to celebrate his long-awaited return.

James was not the only player that Richards feels Chelsea need to get back on the pitch as soon as possible - he also name-dropped Romeo Lavia, who is set to be out of action until December.

Additionally, Richards also praised Malo Gusto, but noted that his performance levels dropped towards the end of the game. Moreover, the former Manchester City man made sure to point out that the Blues still do not have a natural goalscorer in their squad.

What did Micah Richards say regarding Reece James?

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Richards mused: “I think Chelsea have been back from the start of the season, I really believe that in terms of what he [Mauricio Pochettino] wants to do. The team ethos and the way he wants them to play. Don’t forget they have lost key players like Reece James, he’s their best player. He has been injured. [Romeo] Lavia, [Moises] Caicedo, they have had players out.

“They are getting players back now. [Malo] Gusto again was really good until the end of the game. They went with two number 10s with [Conor] Gallagher and [Cole] Palmer and he’s just getting used to his squad. With Chelsea, we are saying: ‘who is going to finish off the chances?’”