Roy Keane explains theory why he thinks Enzo Maresca publicly criticised Reece James

Roy Keane has given his thoughts on why Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca criticised Reece James.

Maresca, 44, publicly criticised club captain Reece James earlier this week, calling for more “leadership” from the 24-year-old who has recently returned after yet another injury.

James made his first start since December 2023 in the Blues’ 2-1 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield on October 20.

He made a brief return to action at the back end of last season but suffered a hamstring injury in early August.

"I spoke with him, and I expect from him more in terms of leadership inside the changing room," said Maresca.

"He's on the way, he's doing well, he's progressing, but I expect more.

"Most of the time, a player thinks that 'because I am captain, I expect that you [the manager] give me more'.

"No, for me, because you are the captain, you have to give more. You have to give more than the rest.

"I expect it from Reece [James], and his team-mates expect it from him to give always more in terms of leadership."

"He's understanding that we're expecting more from him," added Maresca.

"He's our guy from the academy. It's one of the reasons why he has to show more in terms of personality.

"He's a reserved guy. But when you don't have a proper leader, you need to build that. I think we don't have a proper leader. We need to build them.

"Reece is one who is on the way but he's not there. He needs to make an effort."

Reece James returned to action against Liverpool (Credit:Getty)

On Sunday afternoon, Sky Sports pundit and former Manchester United captain Roy Keane gave his thoughts on the situation, insisting he has “no problem” with the Chelsea manager’s comments.

"I have no problem with a manager saying that he wants more from him,” he told Sky Sports.

"What's the problem with saying that? Nothing wrong with that."

Keane continued explaining what the possible motivations behind Maresca’s comments may have been.

“It’s nice every now and again to maybe…upset your own players. He’s just trying to gee him up a bit. He knows he’s back from injury now, and he wants him to stay fit,” he said.

“There's nothing wrong with the manager throwing a hand grenade in his dressing room to keep them on their toes,” added Keane.

James retained his starting place but at left-back instead of his preferred right-back spot for Chelsea’s clash with Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon.