Fantasy Premier League

FPL breakout stars: Reece James

By The Scout 3 Sep 2020
Reece James, Chelsea

The Scout explains why Chelsea right-back can deliver the goods as one of FPL’s most creative defenders in 2020/21

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The Scout looks at players expected to progress and make a big impact in 2020/21 Fantasy Premier League.

Reece James (CHE) £5.0m

Right-back James secured a regular role in Chelsea's starting line-up in the second half of 2019/20.

Injury had restricted the 20-year-old to just four starts in the opening 20 Gameweeks.

But once fit, he then was in the starting XI for 12 of the Blues' final 18 matches.

Reece James' best moments of 2019/20

James' delivery was a major weapon for Chelsea from Gameweek 21 onwards.

His 83 crosses and 20 successful crosses both ranked second for Frank Lampard's side.

And his 21 chances created ranked third best at Chelsea, narrowly behind the 22 of second-placed Mason Mount (£7.0m).

Creative influence

Those numbers compare favourably with other FPL defenders.

James was among the top five for crosses and chances created in those final 18 Gameweeks.

Although he is set to compete with Cesar Azpilicueta (£6.0m) for the right-back berth, his delivery could help secure a spot in the Blues' new-look defence for 2020/21.

And at a cost of just £5.0m, James is cheaper than summer signings Thiago Silva and Ben Chilwell (both £5.5m).

Favourable fixtures

Chelsea's opening schedule further raises James' appeal.

They face Brighton & Hove Albion, West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace in the first four Gameweeks.

That hands the defender the chance to bring in points at both ends of the pitch from the very start.

Also in this series

Part 1: Jarrod Bowen
Part 2: Phil Foden
Part 3: Mason Greenwood
Part 4: Bukayo Saka
Part 6: Ben White

Don't get caught out. GW1 deadline: 11:00 BST on 12 September. Register your team now at fantasy.premierleague.com.

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