Ferdinand chooses Chelsea defender over decorated PL rival for England

Rio Ferdinand chooses Chelsea right-back Reece James over Trent Alexander-Arnold

The debate for who is the best right-back in the England squad has been going on for a very long time. Fans have been divided between Chelsea right-back Reece James and Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand seems to have chosen a side with the centre-back choosing James over Trent. Speaking to FIVE (h/t football.london), the former United player gave his preference.

“Reece James is ahead of Trent Alexander-Arnold right now. If I’m a winger, I look at who I don’t want to play against more out of the two of them and it would be Reece James. I think physically Reece James can match people defensively and going forward is ridiculous. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s passing I would say arguably is better over varied distances but I think Reece will score more goals. He’s in there so much.”

James started the game against Italy last night ahead of Trent in the right wing-back position. It was a very disappointing match as the Three Lions lost 1-0 to the Azzurri and were relegated to League B in the UEFA Nations League.

A Cobham graduate, the 22-year-old worked his way up the academy system at the west London club to establish himself in the team. Since his promotion to the senior side in 2019, he has been a regular face for the club in the right-back position.

Despite Chelsea’s poor start to this season, James has been one of the best players for the club. The 22-year-old has played in seven games this season in all competitions, scoring one goal and assisting the same in the process.

Capable of playing as a centre-back and right midfielder, apart from his natural position makes the England international a versatile player. Surprisingly, James is compared to Trent when the Chelsea player is miles clear of the Liverpool one.

Trent has often come under criticism for his defensive work, something that has hardly been the case for James. The 22-year-old is equally good going forward as he is in defending. James also recently signed a new six-year contract at the club, committing his future until 2028.

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With the World Cup in November, it is very likely that both the right-backs will travel with the team. It remains to be seen who is preferred to start, but Blues fans will hope that it is their right-back.