Maresca says he sees Chelsea captain James as a ‘midfielder’ | OneFootball

Enzo Maresca has said he sees Reece James as a midfielder after the Chelsea’s captain’s impressive performance in the club’s win at FC Copenhagen.

Chelsea secured a 2-1 lead to take back to Stamford Bridge in the first leg of their Europa Conference League last-16 tie.

The West Londoners qualified for the knockout rounds with a perfect record and extended that flawless run in Europe this season with victory in the Danish capital.

James opened the scoring seconds after half-time with a low driven effort from distance, with Maresca having moved the 25-year-old into midfield for the clash.

Chelsea’s lead was doubled on 65 minutes, when substitute Enzo Fernandez slammed home from Tyrique George’s pull back in the penalty area.

Copenhagen were organised defensively throughout in a disciplined performance and the Danes brought themselves back into the contest – and tie – through a set piece. Gabriel Pereira’s brilliant header halved the deficit and leaves the tie in the balance ahead of next week’s return.

Speaking at full-time, Maresca praised the performance of James, who is attempting to find rhythm after an injury-hit period. Having played predominantly at right-back, James has featured in a central position of late and Maresca has insisted it is a change that could be permanent.

“We know how important he is for us. He’s our captain, a fantastic player. We need him fit, so that is our duty, our target because for sure he is going to help us. He can play in many positions because the good players can play in many positions.

“You can ask Reece, when I signed for Chelsea, the day after I sent him a video about seeing him as a midfielder. I see Reece as a midfielder. Since day one. I sent him a clip when he was on holiday about how he can be a midfielder. He has played in full-back, central defender, so the main target for us is to keep him fit. ”

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