Former Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta says it’s not a shock that is taking part in on the highest degree for membership and nation after seeing the England right-back come by the youth ranks throughout his time at Stamford Bridge.
The 2 defenders spent 4 years collectively within the first workforce and gained the 2021 Champions League collectively. James ultimately succeeded the Spaniard because the Blues captain in 2023.
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“I price him actually extremely,” Azpilicueta informed BBC Radio 5 stay’s Soccer Every day podcast. “He is a high participant. I knew him when he was coming by the youth groups and he was beginning with the primary workforce.
“We performed in the identical place however when he was beginning with the primary workforce I used to be taking part in a bit extra on the left once we had been taking part in 4 on the again. Then once we performed lots, he was taking part in proper wing-back and I used to be taking part in proper centre-back so we had numerous communication.
“I at all times tried to assist him in his improvement. We’re sort of totally different gamers however he took over the captaincy once I left, so I actually price him. He is a high participant, high man and I maintain him and seeing his improvement as a result of now he is taking part in in midfield.
“He is doing wonderful. He has high qualities. It would not shock me seeing him taking part in at this degree with England. He deserves it. It makes me actually glad.”
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