Chelsea captain Reece James was unable to make a real impact on their defeat to Sunderland, however is now top for one stat in the Premier League in a single game.
The England international was always going to start the game due to Malo Gusto serving his suspension for a red card picked up against Nottingham Forest.
However, a nightmare afternoon for the Blues played out before the Stamford Bridge crowd that saw them defeated 2-1 by the Black Cats.
There were a number of poor performances from individuals who it wouldn’t be expected from. Moises Caicedo disappointed in the heart of midfield after his personal epic start to the season.
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty ImagesReece James completed the most forward passes in a 2025/26 Premier League game
After the Blues were pegged back before half-time, Chelsea had the lion’s share of possession however were unable to create any real opportunities. Enzo Maresca’s side didn’t create a big chance after the break.
Despite starting at right-back, James had attacking intentions, and as per WhoScored registered an incredible 67 forward passes throughout the 90 minutes.
This is the most of any player in the Premier League so far this season, however it didn’t lead to another goal after Alejandro Garnacho’s fourth-minute opener.
The club captain’s individual stats are strong from the game, with him being one of the few who actually delivered despite the defeat.
Reece James vs SunderlandTotalMinutes90Accurate Passes96/100Recoveries8Duels Won7/10Chances Created1Touches127
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty ImagesChelsea chiefs really impressed with James treatment
Maresca has maintained his stance of protecting James from his own injury problems. He started on the bench for the important Champions League game against Ajax just three days before this outing.
Chelsea chiefs have loved Maresca’s approach with James, and this looks set to be the method used going forwards with some of the other injury-prone players.
The Blues are looking to protect Romeo Lavia as he begins to make an impact again for the first team, with him still yet to complete a full 90 minutes since his move from Southampton.
The Belgian was an unused substitute against Sunderland, and is almost certainly going to start in midfield for the EFL Cup tie against Wolves on Wednesday.