Chelsea captain Reece James scored on his 200th appearance for the Blues in today’s dominating win over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.
The skipper volleyed in late to make it 3-0 for the Blues, capping off an outstanding individual display that featured an assist for Pedro Neto’s goal.
James, a Chelsea fan since childhood, began training with the club at the age of six.
He advanced through our development center curriculum before joining the Cobham Academy, where he excelled.
He won the FA Youth Cup as Under-18s captain in 2017/18 and was awarded Academy Player of the Season.
After a good loan spell at Wigan Athletic, Frank Lampard promoted James to the first team.
He scored on his Chelsea debut against Grimsby Town, and other highlights from an outstanding rookie season included a spectacular equalizer in a 4-4 Champions League draw with Ajax.
During his second season in the senior squad, James improved dramatically, establishing himself as one of the world’s best full-backs. He finished the 2020/21 season as a Champions League winner, having played in the final victory over Manchester City in Porto.
James was elected captain of our men’s team ahead of the 2023/24 season after establishing himself in a key role at Chelsea. He has worn the armband ever since, and he joyfully lifted the UEFA Conference League and Club World Cup titles last season.
