“He struggled with it” – Wayne Rooney criticises Chelsea player in Arsenal defeat yesterday | OneFootball

Former England striker Wayne Rooney has highlighted the role of one Chelsea player yesterday for some criticism after defeat.

The news comes after Chelsea were defeated by Arsenal in the Premier League yesterday, losing to a first half headed goal by Mikel Merino.

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The game was obviously not without its drama and Chelsea fans saw what they expect to see every time Robert Sanchez starts, and that is him making a silly mistake and giving away a goal. This time he got lucky, but Maresca continued to back his goalkeeper at the full time whistle once again.

Meanwhile, Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber was seen mocking Maresca on the side lines in an interaction that has annoyed Blues fans even more.

All in all it wasn’t a good performance from Chelsea and it lacked intensity, desire, energy, and any kind of real belief that they could get something from the game.

Rooney says James struggled

Reece James fires one in from range. (Photo by Patrik Lundin/Getty Images)

The former Manchester United star has picked out Reece James’ performance in the game and the job he had to do by man-marking Declan Rice. Rooney believes the defender struggled with this role.

Speaking on Match of the Day 2 last night, Rooney said:

“Reece James had a job to do today and he was man marking Declan Rice and coming back from injury was very difficult today. I think he struggled with it. James is always thinking of Rice, he’s not even looking at the ball. Rice is very clever with his movement. James just followed Rice around everywhere. I felt it was a job too big for Reece James today.”

James was obviously playing in centre midfield again which isn’t his usual role but one that Enzo Maresca sees him in more than at right back.