Joe Cole ‘delighted’ with Chelsea progress in AC Milan win and singles out ‘sublime’ Reece James

Joe Cole was ‘delighted’ with the progress Chelsea showed in their Champions League win over AC Milan and singled out ‘sublime’ Reece James for praise.

Chelsea news, exclusives and analysis

Chelsea recorded their first European win under Graham Potter on Wednesday night as goals from James, Wesley Fofana and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang saw the Blues outclass Serie A giants AC Milan.

2021 Champions League winners Chelsea lost their opening European game in Thomas Tuchel’s final match in charge and were held to a 1-1 draw in Potter’s first fixture as the new Stamford Bridge boss.

But Chelsea’s Champions League campaign kicked into gear with an emphatic win over AC Milan.

Cole told BT Sport: ‘There was a massive gulf in class between the two teams tonight. It was a routine win for Chelsea.

‘It was very disappointing from Milan actually because they threw the towel in towards the end of the goal. That won’t sit well for Milan fans.

‘But Chelsea were great, Reece James was sublime all night, there’s not enough superlatives for that man.

‘It was so routine for Chelsea. To do that to an AC Milan shows we’re going in the right direction so I’m absolutely delighted.’

Chelsea summer signing Wesley Fofana put the Blues ahead midway through the first half before he was forced off before the break with an injury.

Fellow Chelsea new boy Aubameyang doubled Chelsea’s lead after half-time and James rounded off an impressive performance with a third shortly after.

Thomas Tuchel rejects first job offer after Chelsea sacking

Brighton star responds to Chelsea and Arsenal transfer links

Glen Johnson tells Chelsea to cash-in on wantaway star

Former Chelsea forward Eniola Aluko added: ‘Reece James is so smart with his goal.

‘He waits for the overlap to happen