Chelsea skipper Reece James flies to Paris for advice on how to be a captain from World Cup-winning superstar
REECE JAMES flew to Paris during the international break to get advice on becoming a better captain from rugby World Cup winner Siya Kolisi.
Chelsea skipper James, 23, was given the armband on a permanent basis by Mauricio Pochettino over the summer.
He was selected ahead of veteran leader Thiago Silva and multiple title winner Raheem Sterling thanks to his close links with the Blues.
But James has so far been present for just six league matches this term.
He missed nine matches after picking up a hamstring injury in August.
And after returning to the starting XI, James will now miss the upcoming game with Brighton after being sent off in Saturday’s 4-1 defeat at Newcastle.
The Metro claims James is now seeking advice from experienced team-mates like Silva on how to become a better captain on and off the pitch.
The Cobham superstar is determined to prove that Pochettino made the right call by giving him the armband.
And James is even said to have jetted to Paris during the international break after turning down a call from England boss Gareth Southgate.
It’s believed the right-back sought out South Africa rugby captain Kolisi, who led his side to a second straight World Cup after beating New Zealand last month.
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James is said to have talked with Kolisi, who plays for French side Racing 92, in an attempt to soak up any knowledge that could prove handy in the world of football.
Kolisi is regarded as one of the greatest skippers in any sport, let alone rugby, and is sure to have passed on some handy words of wisdom.
James will be hoping to put them to good use too when he returns for Chelsea’s trip to Manchester United next month.
The Blues have won just four of their 13 matches so far this season.
And Pochettino is hoping that by managing James’ fitness, he can begin to rely more on his leader not only in the dressing room but on the pitch too.