Jamie Carragher has criticized Reece James for his role in Newcastle’s goal against Chelsea on Sunday.
James entered the game hurt by criticism from Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca in terms of their “leadership”.
However, the 24-year-old defender still had the captain’s armband when he lined up at left-back against the Magpies.
All was going well for James until the 32nd minute when he allowed Alexander Isak to get between him and Levi Colwill, finding space to head home Lewis Hall’s cross to make it 1-1 at the break.
Alexander Isak equalizes for Newcastle at Stamford Bridge! ?? pic.twitter.com/1FhSPJVV0z
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) October 27, 2024
James didn’t even seem to call out to Colwill, despite having a perfect view of the unfolding situation and plenty of time to make a decision.
It’s safe to say Carragher was not impressed.
“Reece James hasn’t done his job. He loses Isak… run back or call your defender to catch him. He let him go,” said the former Liverpool defender Sky Sports.
“I go back to what the coach said before the game: he wants more leadership.”
Reece James makes up for it
James must have been relieved to see that Cole Palmer restores Chelsea’s lead just two minutes after half time.
However, the England international seemed determined to make sure he made up for his lapse in concentration.
And James’ moment came in the 70th minute when he was well-placed to make a goal-line clearance to deny Isak a second equalizer of the day when he looked certain to find the net.
The defender also produced a stunning header to cut out a Newcastle cross in the dying minutes of second-half stoppage time.
James ended up playing the full 90 minutes, making five recoveries, two blocks, two clearances and two interceptions while winning all three of his aerial duels.
Sunday’s win leaves Chelsea fourth in the Premier League after an excellent start to life under Maresca.
