Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso believes that Reece James could be one of the best midfielders in the world, and he could play a key role for Chelsea in that position.

The 26-year-old has been used as a midfielder at times, and Alonso believes he has the technical ability, tactical discipline, and intelligence to play there. Chelsea need more depth in the middle of the park, and having James slot into that role could prove to be very useful for them.

Reece James tipped for midfield role

Reece James of Chelsea (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

Apart from his quality as a footballer, he is the leader of the Chelsea dressing room, and he could marshal the troops from the middle of the park. It remains to be seen whether Chelsea are prepared to use him extensively in the midfield instead of his natural role as a right-back.

Asked if James can be one of the best midfielders in the world, Alonso said to The Telegraph: “I would say so. I would say that he’s very comfortable, very confident playing in that position. He has the intelligence to play there. He has the intelligence to connect with teammates in the middle, to know what’s the best thing before and after you get the ball. He has this awareness. I remember seeing him play very well in the middle. So yes, we are using him, and he will have a lot of minutes in there as a midfielder.”

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James could boost Chelsea midfield

Chelsea captain Reece James reacts after a defeat (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Chelsea have started the season well under their new manager, and they will be hoping to return to the UEFA Champions League. They have spent a substantial amount of money during the summer transfer window, and they will be expected to fight for trophies as well.

Players like James will be crucial to their hopes of getting back to the top of English football.