Can captain Reece James lead Chelsea? Blues legend Mikel Obi shares his opinion

• John Obi-Mikel has challenged Chelsea captain Reece James to show more leadership on and off the pitch
• Chelsea is out of both domestic cup competitions and sits sixth in the Premier League table, increasing the need for stronger leadership
• Manager Enzo Maresca recently defended James, insisting he is improving as a leader and remains crucial to Chelsea’s future

Former Chelsea star John Obi-Mikel has issued a strong challenge to club captain Reece James, urging him to display more leadership on and off the pitch. 

The ex-midfielder, who won multiple titles with the Blues, believes James needs to step up significantly if he wants to be an influential figure at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea’s struggles this season have been evident, as they find themselves out of both domestic cup competitions and currently sit sixth in the Premier League table. With the team facing yet another disappointing campaign, discussions over potential summer signings have already begun. However, for now, manager Enzo Maresca must rely on his existing squad to salvage what’s left of the season.

James, 25, has endured a torrid time with injuries in recent seasons, limiting his ability to lead from the front. 

Despite being one of the most talented right-backs in the league, his frequent absences have made it difficult for him to assert his presence in the squad. That inconsistency is precisely why Mikel believes the full-back must do more to justify his captaincy.

Speaking on his podcast, Mikel openly questioned James’ ability to lead, particularly in handling players with strong personalities like Enzo Fernández. 

The former Nigerian international expressed doubt over whether James had the authority to command respect in the dressing room,

“Do you think Reece James is going to speak to Enzo Fernandez? No. I don’t see that happening. Don’t kid yourself there, that’s why I say Reece James needs to do more as a captain. But you can only do more by being on the pitch and showing leadership. He’s been injured half of his career at Chelsea,” he said.

Maresca, a manager known for always backing his players recently defended his captain, insisting that James is improving in his leadership role and remains an integral part of the squad. Back in January, he stated, 

“In general, Reece is one of the most important players for us because he is the captain… He’s improving in that [leadership] aspect.”

James has featured in Chelsea’s last five Premier League matches, signalling a gradual return to fitness. 

If he can maintain his availability, he could play a major role in leading the team for the remainder of the season. The Blues desperately need their captain to lead from the front, not just with his performances but with his influence in the dressing room.

Cole Palmer's phenomenal four-goal first-half frenzy floors Brighton

Previously, TheRadar reported that Cole Palmer set a new record with his 45-minute performance against a Premier League opponent. 

He did this by netting an incredible four goals in the first 45 minutes, becoming the first player ever to achieve such a feat in a single half.