Reece James offers views on Mauricio Pochettino's appointment as Chelsea manager
Reece James has given his verdict on Chelsea's appointment of Mauricio Pochettino as their new manager.
The Blues sacked Graham Potter in April and appointed Frank Lampard as their interim manager for the remainder of the season. Their luck didn't improve under Lampard, as they finished a trophyless season in 12th place in the standings.
According to The Mirror, the Argentine tactician has signed a two-year deal with the club, with an option to extend it for another year. His appointment hasn't gone down well in north London, though, as he managed Chelsea's arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur for over five years.
James, who has been on the club's books for 17 years, was asked to give his opinion on Pochettino's arrival at Stamford Bridge. He told Sky Sports (via Football.London):
"Everyone has been saying he's a great manager, and, hopefully, next season, we find our feet early. Hopefully we're a good, strong side."
'Poch' will undoubtedly have some remodelling to do when it comes to his first-team set-up in west London. James' place down the right-hand flank is unlikely to be under threat, though.
The 23-year-old England international has earned himself a reputation for being one of the game's finest right-backs. His attacking runs offer Chelsea a key attacking outlet down the right-hand side, while he's also a sound defender.
The Blues do not have European football next season, so they will undoubtedly be aiming to return to the top four in Pochettino's debut campaign at Stamford Bridge.
Frank Lampard planning a break after Chelsea stint
Frank Lampard ended his second stint as Blues manager with a 1-1 Premier League draw against Newcastle United on May 28.
Following the draw, Lampard was asked to address his future after Mauricio Pocettino's arrival in west London. He said (via 90min):
"I'll have a break. It has been quite intense. I wasn't in that mode. I had to get in the mode. I've given it my all. We'll see what happens."
Lampard started off as a youth coach at Chelsea in the summer of 2017. After a year at Cobham, he managed Derby County for a season before being made Chelsea's permanent boss in July 2019.
Lampard was relieved of his duties in January 2021. After a year-long break, Everton appointed him midway through the 2021-22 season but sacked him within 12 months, with the Englishman going on a ten-game winless streak across competitions.
It remains to be seen if and when the 44-year-old decides to return to management after managing just one win in his second stint at Stamford Bridge.