Alonso: Reece James improves Chelsea in any position

Xabi Alonso has backed Chelsea captain Reece James to elevate the side regardless of where he lines up, with the 26-year-old in contention for Monday's Premier League opener at Fulham.

James returned to Cobham last week following England's World Cup campaign and featured in midfield during Chelsea's final pre-season friendly, a 3-1 win over Real Sociedad at Stamford Bridge.

Alonso has multiple options for deploying James — centrally in a back three, at full-back, wing-back, or in central midfield. The Chelsea head coach indicated that flexibility is a strength, not a complication.

'He's flexible in his game, but he needs to feel important,' said Alonso. 'Not just because of the role he has as a captain, but also because of the quality he gives to the rest of the team.'

'Wherever he plays, as a right-back or as a midfielder, normally he makes the team better because of his quality, because of his game intelligence, his experience, his composure with the ball,' Alonso added.

Alonso also pointed to James's emotional connection with the club as a factor heading into the new season. 'The club means so much to him, and we want to have a good start, a fresh start with good momentum, and that's why the start is so important on Monday.'