Reece James has defended Trent Alexander-Arnold, with the pair set to rival one another for a place in Gareth Southgate's starting-eleven at the 2022 Qatar World Cup. The Liverpool defender has faced growing criticism for his defending ability in recent times, but the Chelsea man ruled out such claims and insisted that 'mistakes are normal'.
The Cobham graduate, who sees his contract at Stamford Bridge expire in three years, started just one of England's UEFA Nations League fixtures this month, filling in at right-back in the goalless draw with Italy. His only other cameo came in an appearance off the bench against Hungary where he conceded a penalty shortly after coming on.
James, who has endured an injury-ridden 39-game campaign under Thomas Tuchel, has since faced criticism for his role in granting the visitors a definitive goal in the 1-0 loss. As has Alexander-Arnold this season, so the Chelsea defender has spoken up and set the record straight.
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Speaking after the clash with Roberto Mancini's side at Molineux on Saturday night, James first outlined his intentions to land a first-team role heading into the upcoming World Cup. He said: "I'll try everything I can [to be first choice]. Only my performances will be able to prove what I can bring. In these games and building into next season I'll hopefully be able to show that I'm ready to play every game."
Showing great camaraderie, James then responded to Alexander-Arnold's critics: "I make mistakes as well. I gave away a penalty against Hungary so we are both still learning our trade. Liverpool have 95 per cent of the ball and he defends less than I have to. People have a lot of stuff to say and don't really know the game. Trent is a great player."
However, despite the Liverpool defender's plaudits, it's James that Real Madrid are reportedly looking to sign this summer. The 22-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to the Spanish giants ever since the European titans clashed in the Champions League quarter-final two months ago.
According to the Mirror, Carlo Ancelotti has placed the defender at the top of his summer shopping list. Los Blancos have reportedly been impressed by James, having watched him on nine occasions this season.
Real Madrid's interest in the right-back spot follows growing uncertainty in their defence, with Lucas Vazquez - a forward - often having to fill in for the ageing Dani Carvajal. The report concludes by outlining that Ancelotti's entourage of scouts and technical staff see him as the next piece of the club's puzzle.
So, in a bid to ward off interest from potential suitors, it's believed that Chelsea's new owners made it a priority to resolve his future with a new deal. However, according to the MailOnline, no approach has yet been made to extend James' contrac,t despite a growing concern that the defender will feel undervalued.
