Topics: England, Football, Reece James, Thomas Tuchel, Chelsea
Reece James has now explained his celebration after scoring a sensational free-kick in his first international start since 2022.
The Chelsea captain would have been licking his lips when Thomas Tuchel was announced as the new England manager after winning the Champions League with the German in 2021.
It wasn't the biggest surprise to see James in the starting lineup against Latvia, and the full-back repaid Tuchel's faith with an inch perfect free kick to open the scoring at Wembley.
After the ball hit the net, Sam Matterface and Lee Dixon, as well as hundreds of fans online, all noticed the lack of celebration from James who looked extremely unbothered by his first England goal.
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Following the game, James revealed the real reason behind his celebration and unfortunately it wasn't the cryptic message many were hoping for.
“Relaxed celebration? I was surprised it went in… but looking at the replay it was probably tough for the keeper to get there," James said in his post-match interview.
Tuchel was full of praise for James in his own post-match interview, explaining it was no surprise to see him hit the levels he did.
“I know Reecey, the foot and the quality he has is amazing. He has every right to be proud and happy," Tuchel told ITV.
Tuchel also confirmed he has no worries about James' fitness, with the Chelsea star finally appearing to put his injury woes behind him after assuring fans he was 'fully available' last week.
He’s in excellence shape. He looks sharp. The quality… there cannot be any doubt," he added.
James has made 11 Premier League and two Conference League appearances for Chelsea this season which is already more than he managed in the entirety of last season.
