Reece James has been named in England’s starting XI for tonight’s World Cup opener against Croatia, giving Chelsea supporters an immediate reason to watch Thomas Tuchel’s side closely.
The Chelsea captain starts at right-back in England’s Group L opener, with Reuters listing James in a defence alongside John Stones, Ezri Konsa and Nico O’Reilly.
Former Chelsea winger Noni Madueke also starts for England, while Trevoh Chalobah remains in the squad after his late call-up following Tino Livramento’s injury withdrawal.
For Chelsea, James’ inclusion is more than routine international team news. He has spent too much of the last few years fighting for rhythm, so a World Cup start against Croatia feels like a proper marker.
James Gets The Stage Chelsea Needed
James now has the chance to show his sharpness, authority and fitness on one of the biggest stages in football.
ReadChelsea had already looked at why James faced a clear Chelsea test as England opened against Croatia. Tuchel has answered the first question by trusting him from the start.
The next part is simple. Chelsea need James to come through this run of games sharp, confident and intact.
If he does that, tonight could become a small but important step in a much bigger summer.
