Reece James has made a positive admission regarding new Chelsea signing Raheem Sterling following his arrival at Stamford Bridge this summer.
The winger joined Chelsea from Manchester City in a £50 million deal, ending a seven-year spell at the Citizen’s, winning four Premier League titles during his time.
The England international has joined up with his national teammates Mason Mount, Reece James and Ben Chilwell following the transfer and will be hopeful of progressing their on-the-field relationships for both club and country.
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Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has already hailed the signing, stating that it shows the ambition of the club this summer.
"The signing of Raheem shows what we're capable of doing, it shows the ambition of the club and the ownership and it's good because we're all here to win and compete,” he admitted.
"We love to compete and we love the challenge at the very top. For that we need signings of new quality players or otherwise there's no chance."
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However, it is not just Tuchel who is excited by the signing of Sterling.
Speaking to Chelsea’s official website, James revealed what it is like to play against the winger, after the pair faced off for years when the Blues faced Man City.
He said: “Playing against him is a nightmare so I’m pretty happy that he’s here now and I don’t need to play against him anymore!
“The way he plays, he’s so small and sharp.
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"He looks small but you don’t realise how strong he is. He never stops and is always trying to run in behind and stuff.
“I remember he had a good game in the Champions League final.
"It was an even battle - he beat me a few times and I won duels a few times as well so it was a tough game between us.”
The Blues will be hoping that Sterling’s addition can help Tuchel’s side close the gap at the top of the Premier League.
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Chelsea lifted the UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup last season, as well as falling to defeat on penalties to Liverpool in both the Carabao Cup and FA Cup final.
Sterling’s quality, alongside his experience as he enters his prime will come as a much welcomed boost to the Blues, who have already lost Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen and Romelu Lukaku this summer.
It remains to be seen as to whether the Blues will add to their squad further, with defensive reinforcements much needed.
Topics: Chelsea, Reece James, Raheem Sterling, Football, Premier League
Nick Emms