Xabi Alonso backs Reece James to stay in midfield long term

Xabi Alonso is still working out his best Chelsea XI, but he is sure about one thing: captain Reece James has a long future in central midfield, not at right-back. Alonso came in as manager and has been weighing up his options before the Arsenal showdown. His stance on the England defender is firm, though. James, the club captain, will be building his future in the middle of the park under the new boss. The switch is a big call given James has spent most of his career playing full-back.