Reece James offers emphatic reminder of Chelsea class with Thomas Tuchel’s lynchpin returning in style

Chants for Reece James were among the more palatable from the travelling Chelsea fans as the wingback sent out an emphatic reminder of what Thomas Tuchel has been missing.

In his first start since December 29, the England international scored one spectacular individual goal and played a part in two more.

“He’s one of our own” sang the away end after James left Dwight McNeil with twisted blood and drilled a shot past Nick Pope.

Before kick off, some had chanted Roman Abramovich’s name during a minute’s applause to show support for Ukraine following Russia’s invasion.

It was in bad taste and earned jeers from the majority of Turf Moor.

Their recognition of James was more fitting. He was brilliant.

At his best he is virtually unplayable – blessed with wonderful balance, fast feet, frightening speed and power.

His goal was a stunning piece of individual skill that proves why he is so pivotal Tuchel’s system, which relies on inspiration from out wide in the absence of a No10.

James and Ben Chilwell were key to any title challenge this season. So, to lose one was always going to be damaging. To lose both, devastating.

And that is how it proved after Chelsea relinquished a once-six-point lead at the top of the Premier League to end up watching Manchester City and Liverpool turn it into a two-horse title race.

Could they have kept pace with James involved after Chilwell’s knee ligament damage? It is debatable – but from the moment he limped out of their 1-1 draw with Brighton in their final game of 2021, Tuchel knew he was in trouble.

The German wanted to bring in immediate cover in the January window, so serious was James’ hamstring injury.

None could be found and Chelsea paid the price.

A 4-0 win against Burnley that still