Does James have the edge over Alexander-Arnold for England?
Ashley Cole believes Chelsea full-back Reece James has similar attacking qualities to Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold and is quickly improving defensively.
The 20-year-old has relegated Chelsea club captain Cesar Azpilicueta to the bench with his performances under Frank Lampard in the last 18 months.
Rating the players: England 3-0 Republic of Ireland
And Cole is among those impressed by James’ attacking quality, but has also hailed his aggression when defending.
“He’s similar to Trent [Alexander-Arnold] the variety and quality of his crossing in wide areas I think is very good,” Cole said of James during an appearance on ITV.
“He’s improved his defensive abilities. He’s a little more aggressive now and he’s definitely a key player for Chelsea at the moment.”
Former Chelsea, Liverpool and England right-back Glen Johnson is a fan of both James and Alexander-Arnold but suggests the Blues man may have the edge as he is a “better defender”.
“I would say, overall, it’s a toss-up between Trent and Reece James,” Johnson said when asked who England’s best option at right-back is.
“It depends on who you’re playing against of course, but I think Reece James is a better defender. I think he’s quicker, stronger.
