Boss Maresca backs captain James’ Chelsea criticism

Reece James’ criticism of his team-mates is “absolutely” the kind of leadership he expects from the Blues captain, according to Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca.

James, 25, criticized Chelsea’s “poor performance” in Thursday’s 2-1 defeat by Legia Warsaw at Stamford Bridge.

Although the Blues managed to reach the Europa Conference League semifinals 4-2 on aggregate, James claimed their performance had shown “disrespect” of the competition.

Maresca remarked, “Absolutely, absolutely, yes,” when asked if James displayed his leadership qualities in his remarks. He is one of the captains and is in charge of that.

Because of the initial outcome, we tried to manage the game improperly, I believe he was correct.

He probably is correct in what he said, he said. He sort of leads us into the changing area.

Maresca earlier this year criticized James for his lack of leadership abilities, claiming that he “expected more” from the England right-back in his captaincy.

Maresca continued, “I complained a little bit about how he led me.”

Chelsea made the final four appearances despite being booed off at Stamford Bridge.

On goal difference, the Blues are sixth in the Premier League, trailing only Manchester City, who is fifth.

Maresca claims he still has “unwavering support” from the board and will continue to uphold his principles despite fanfare murmurs in the fanbase.

We are currently playing in the semi-finals of a European competition. So why do we need to “change something” now? Maresca remarked.

“I don’t have any doubts about what we’re doing, how we’re doing it, and for various reasons,” I believe.

As the England international failed to score against Legia Warsaw, Cole Palmer’s goal drought reached 15 games.

The 22-year-old scored his final goal against Bournemouth on January 14th, ending 2-2.

Without Palmer and Senegal forward Nicolas Jackson, 23, who are both 23 years old, Palmer claims Chelsea can’t finish in the top five this season.

They have already scored goals. They only need to turn a little bit in that particular moment, Palmer said.

In 20 Premier League games, Cole scored 14 goals, so he scored goals. Before the injury, Nicki was the same.