Reece James reflects on Chelsea poor form in the 2022/23 season

Chelsea defender Reece James has reacted to the team's performance in the 2022/23 season. He summarised the last campaign as "worse."

The English defender was speaking in an interview ahead of the Premier League summer series against Newcastle United. Reece James spent most of his time on the sideline last season following consistent hamstring injuries.

He also said the number of defeats last season discouraged most of his teammates. Chelsea lost 22 games last season across all competitions.

Since the new staff and manager have come, the energy has changed. It has been a very good atmosphere, you can see that in our recent performances. It is definitely going to be a tough season, there is no easy one in the Premier League. It was very difficult last season, the toughest I have experienced.
There was lots of change, some players didn’t want to be there. That was difficult. Now it is on to a new page and we are looking forward to the season. Last season we had a lot of bad results and bad results had an effect. It is not the best to be around. But this season there are a lot of fresh faces. It is a new start. That has had a big impact on the players so far, and everyone is excited and can’t wait to get started.”

He also spoke about the possibility of him becoming the captain of the club in the near future.

"Of course, I have been at Chelsea all my life. It is something I have dreamed of so hopefully it happens when the time is right."

James recently signed a six-year deal with the Blues which is expected to keep him at the club at least until the summer of 2028.