Sawt Falasteen - Chelsea captain James signs new six-year deal

A Chelsea academy graduate, James has been at the club since he was six and the 26-year-old wanted to remain at the club for what he hopes are his "peak years".

James has won five major trophies, including the Champions League and Club World Cup, in over 200 appearances for the club, more than 50 of which have been as captain.

"I have always said I want my peak years to be here, and I truly believe we have everything it takes to build on our previous successes," James said in a club statement.

"I'm excited for the future under this ownership, sporting directors, coach and all the staff and hopefully we will lift many more trophies together over the coming years."

Chelsea won the Conference League and Club World Cup last year, but have failed to seriously contend for the Premier League since an American consortium took control of the club from Roman Abramovich in 2022.

The Blues are fifth in the Premier League with nine games to go and were beaten 5-2 by Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday.

"On behalf of ownership and everyone connected to Chelsea, it is a proud moment for all of us to have Reece extend his contract," said Chelsea's sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart.

"He is the leader of this team, both on and off the pitch."

James is expected to be Thomas Tuchel's starting right-back at the World Cup for England after overcoming a series of injury problems.

He has played 35 times in all competitions this season, his highest tally since 2021/22.

L.AbuAli--SF-PST