Reece James has now explained his celebration after scoring a sensational free-kick in his first international start since 2022.
The Chelsea captain would have been licking his lips when Thomas Tuchel was announced as the new England manager after winning the Champions League with the German in 2021.
It wasn’t the biggest surprise to see James in the starting lineup against Latvia, and the full-back repaid Tuchel’s faith with an inch perfect free kick to open the scoring at Wembley.
After the ball hit the net, Sam Matterface and Lee Dixon, as well as hundreds of fans online, all noticed the lack of celebration from James who looked extremely unbothered by his first England goal.
Following the game, James revealed the real reason behind his celebration and unfortunately it wasn’t the cryptic message many were hoping for.
“Relaxed celebration? I was surprised it went in… but looking at the replay it was probably tough for the keeper to get there,” James said in his post-match interview.
Tuchel was full of praise for James in his own post-match interview, explaining it was no surprise to see him hit the levels he did.
Reece James after scoring for England against Latvia- Getty
“I know Reecey, the foot and the quality he has is amazing. He has every right to be proud and happy,” Tuchel told ITV.
Tuchel also confirmed he has no worries about James’ fitness, with the Chelsea star finally appearing to put his injury woes behind him.
He’s in excellence shape. He looks sharp. The quality… there cannot be any doubt,” he added.
Featured Image Credit: ITV
Topics: England, Football, Reece James, Thomas Tuchel, Chelsea
Reece James Explains Muted Celebration After Stunning England Free-Kick Against Latvia
Chelsea defender Reece James has revealed the reason behind his understated reaction to scoring a magnificent free-kick for England against Latvia. This goal marked his first international start since 2022, making the moment even more significant.
The appointment of Thomas Tuchel as the England national team manager had likely excited James. Having previously worked under Tuchel at Chelsea, culminating in a Champions League victory in 2021, the Chelsea captain would have been eager to reunite with the German coach on the international stage.
As anticipated, Reece James was named in the starting XI for the match against Latvia. He vindicated Tuchel's decision emphatically by scoring a perfectly executed free-kick, breaking the deadlock for England at Wembley Stadium.
However, James's subdued celebration immediately became a talking point. Commentators Sam Matterface and Lee Dixon, alongside numerous viewers online, observed his lack of exuberant joy after netting his first ever goal for England. Many speculated about potential underlying reasons for his calm demeanor.
Following the game, Reece James addressed the speculation and clarified the genuine motive behind his muted celebration. Dispelling rumors of cryptic messages or hidden meanings, James offered a surprisingly simple explanation.
In his post-match interview, James admitted, “Relaxed celebration? I was surprised it went in… but looking at the replay it was probably tough for the keeper to get there.” He suggested his lack of celebration stemmed from genuine surprise that his free-kick found the back of the net, rather than any pre-planned statement.
Reece James after scoring for England against Latvia (Getty Images)
Thomas Tuchel Praises Reece James's Form and Fitness After England Victory
England manager Thomas Tuchel also spoke to ITV after the match, lavishing praise on Reece James's performance. He stated that James's high-level display came as no surprise to him.
“I know Reecey, the foot and the quality he has is amazing. He has every right to be proud and happy," Tuchel remarked, acknowledging James's exceptional technical ability and overall contribution.
Tuchel further reassured fans by confirming Reece James's fitness, indicating that the defender has overcome his previous injury concerns. He highlighted James's current condition with the following points:
- Excellent Shape: Tuchel affirmed James is in top physical condition.
- Sharpness: He noted James's sharpness and agility on the pitch.
- Undeniable Quality: Tuchel reiterated James's unquestionable talent and skill.
With these positive assessments, Thomas Tuchel seems confident in Reece James's crucial role for England moving forward. James's spectacular free-kick and Tuchel's encouraging words suggest a bright future for the Chelsea star in the national team setup.