Fans Weigh In on Chelsea’s First-Choice Right-Back

Following Reece James’s return to fitness and Malo Gusto’s strong performances, readers were invited to share their opinions on Chelsea’s primary right-back. The following are some of the submitted comments: Commenter Barwell stated: “While I have been impressed by Maresca, some of his decisions are a little curious as, in my view, a fully fit Reece James should always be first choice right-back and a fit Ben Chilwell should always be first choice left-back. Chilwell is a far better left-back/wing-back than Marc Cucurella. And Robert Sanchez is a liability and needs replacing as soon as possible.” Another contributor, Steve, remarked: “James is one of the best right-backs in the world. However, since his return he does look a little slow compared to Gusto so it would depend on the opposition. I would not put either of them at left-back as Cucurella is brilliant right now.” Patrick offered his perspective: “Gusto vs James. At one time, with overlapping full-backs as standard, Chelsea had the best two in the Premier League in James and Chilwell (before both were injured). Tactics are now different. James is one of the best crossers in the league. Since returning, his defending has been less good. Once that is restored he is the best option at right-back.” Sunil commented: “Gusto has done a great job at right-back and deserves huge credit. But James, when fully fit, is an outstanding full-back and the better of the two. His range of passing and crossing is great and he is a constant goal threat, which Gusto is not. James is also ‘one of our own’. We need James back as our right-back and also there for England.” Sandi Toksvig is joined by Gyles Brandreth, Lulu, Emmanuel Sonubi and Alan Davies Grab the mic for Queen, Taylor Swift, Bon Jovi, Katy Perry and more… Ben Fogle and Kate Humble are back for the festivities at Longleat Safari Park From micro plastics in our air, soil, and waterways, to the extent of food waste at this time of year © 2024 BBC. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.