Reece James’ return to consistent fitness and high-level form strengthens Chelsea’s defensive outlook; punters could back Chelsea for clean sheets when he starts or consider James in starting XI/assist markets, while Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber remains a reliable alternative at right-back.
Reece James hailed among world’s best as debate with Jurrien Timber intensifies
Reece James (Chelsea) has been praised as one of the world’s top right-backs after showing sustained fitness and form. When fully fit, James’ versatility and quality place him in the elite bracket alongside the game’s best wide defenders.
Scholes praises Timber but questions best-player tags
Paul Scholes has highlighted Arsenal defenders’ influence this season, singling out Jurrien Timber as a standout performer. Scholes suggested that defenders like Timber have been more influential than some midfield stars in the title race, underlining Timber’s consistency.
Morris: James could be the superior right-back
Jody Morris insists James is better than Timber when deployed regularly at right-back, arguing that James’ ability would make him the best in the world alongside players like Hakimi if he played that role consistently. Morris added that James’ multi-positional talent can sometimes obscure his best position but believes sustained appearances at right-back would cement his status.
Fitness and England prospects
A key factor in the praise has been James’ improved injury record. Recent fitness has allowed him to demonstrate fuller capabilities and has raised hopes that he will be a major asset for England in upcoming international competitions.
Betting implications for punters
James’ return to regular fitness makes Chelsea more appealing in markets tied to defensive solidity: consider clean-sheet and low-goals markets when James starts.
Individual markets — such as James to be in the starting XI, to provide an assist, or to be selected for England — may offer value while his fitness remains consistent.
Conversely, Timber’s reliability keeps him attractive in selections tied to Arsenal’s defensive performance.
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Chelsea star Reece James has been hailed as the "best in the world" and one of his former coaches has explained why he's "better" than an Arsenal standout.
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