After a cagey opening 45 minutes, Chelsea have drawn first blood in their clash against an in-form Aston Villa side.
Blues veteran Reece James has been key to the their first-half success, contributing five crosses, completing 33 of his 35 passes, and winning all three of his duels.
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Crucially, the England international also provided the assist for Chelsea’s opener, which João Pedro headed in from a corner.
As a result, James has now recorded more assists this season than in his three previous seasons combined.
If this current run of form continues, James will surely make a strong case for his inclusion in Thomas Tuchel’s side ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
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