Reece James details how ‘very funny’ Thomas Tuchel has transformed Chelsea

The England defender has discussed the German’s “clear to understand” style of play

Reece James is thriving under Thomas Tuchel (Getty)

Reece James has detailed how “very funny” Thomas Tuchel has revitalised Chelsea in their bid to finish inside the top four in the Premier League.

The England defender has impressed as a wing-back for the German, who has inspired a surge in form since replacing Frank Lampard, with the victory over Liverpool at Anfield taking the Blues up to fourth in the battle to qualify for next season’s Champions League.

And James has opened up on the former Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund tactician’s impact at Stamford Bridge.

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“He is very funny and very passionate because he wants to win,” James told the club’s official website.

“He wants the best for his players and his team, and that shows when he’s on the sideline kicking and heading every ball. Everyone gets on well and it’s a great group.

“The style of play that he’s brought in was evident and clear for us to understand,’ explained James of the new coach’s methods.

“The more we play together, the stronger we will be. Game by game, we will get better and build together.”

James has been pushing Callum Hudson-Odoi for a starting role under Tuchel and the 21-year-old has taken a philosophical attitude to the competition for places.

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“When you play for a top team, you cannot always play and you know you might find yourself in a period where you don’t play as much,” James added.

“You have to just keep working hard and you never know when your chance will come. I have to keep working and be ready. The manager always has his reasons on why he thinks that person should play.

“He is the manager and he makes the decisions so I have to respect them.”