Former Chelsea captain John Terry has backed one current star to be a real difference-maker for the team this season.
Heading into the 2025-26 Premier League season, Chelsea has divided the opinions of fans and pundits alike.
While some believe that the Blues are in for a title challenge this season, others believe that they are still a mile away from it.
However, there is no denying that Enzo Maresca has one of the most talented squads in the league at his disposal.
Last season, Maresca guided the team to a fourth-place finish in the Premier League and then oversaw his team clinch the UEFA Conference League and the Club World Cup.
This time around, they will be looking to go a step further and compete for the domestic title. However, how the team performs will depend on the performance of one player in particular.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
John Terry earmarks Reece James as a key player for Chelsea this season
In an interview with The Sun, former Chelsea captain John Terry predicted that current Blues skipper Reece James’ performances will go a long way in determining Chelsea’s fate this season.
“For Reece, concentrate on staying fit and having a fully-fit season for him is the most important thing. He can make such a difference. We’ve seen the quality. When Reece is at it, he is the world’s best right-back.”
“When you’ve picked up a couple of injuries like Reece has had, it’s difficult to really feel like you belong. So when you start demanding from people around you, when you’re the one not playing, that’s also very difficult.”
“When you’re in the starting line-up week in, week out, it’s easy to command and run the dressing room — and the standards of the football club.”
During the course of his stint at Chelsea, James has established himself not just as a captain but also as a leader.
Despite suffering a number of injuries during the course of his stint at Chelsea, he has managed to bounce back stronger each time.
If he can keep himself fit for the upcoming season, it will undoubtedly be a major boost for the Blues as they challenge for silverware on multiple fronts.
Chelsea news and related links
- What was the Chelsea score today? Result, highlights from AC Milan preseason friendly
- Chelsea vs. Bayer Leverkusen score, result, highlights: Estavao sparkles to inspire debut win
- Key Chelsea player ruled out until September