Reece James has spoken of achieving his 'dream' of playing for his boyhood club.
The 19-year-old has come through the ranks at Stamford Bridge, and was given his first senior appearance for the club when he was bought on as a second half substitute in the friendly win against New England Revolution on Thursday.
The full-back is highly thought of in the academy set up at Cobham and proved his worth during a season long loan with Championship side Wigan Athletic, where he cleaned up at the end of season awards.
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On his return to the club, James got notice that he was included in the squad to travel to Boston, USA for the friendly.
"I’ve always had that dream of coming on and playing for my boyhood club, and I am thankful I got to fulfil it," he told the official Chelsea website. "It’s a dream come true.
"It is great involvement for me, getting to play with players I have watched as I have been coming through at Chelsea, players who have won Champions Leagues, World Cups.
"I found out a few days before I would be coming out on the trip and I was really excited. I just take in my stride really. I remain focused and now I will try and help the squad build up to the Europa League final.
While proud of the achievements of the season, James insists that there is still more to come from him.
"It was a very good season at Wigan," he added. "Playing week in week out at a decent level was a good achievement. This is the icing on the cake and hopefully it’s just the start."
James wasn't the only Chelsea player to have a taste of Championship football this season, both Tammy Abraham (Aston Villa) and Mason Mount (Derby County) will face each other in the Championship play-off final later this month. But their Chelsea teammate is refusing to take sides.
"I was happy to see Tammy and Mason score in the semis," he said.
"I’m sure it will be a very good final but I’m not ready to make a prediction! It’s too early for that. It’s a one-off game that can go either way. I am looking forward to watching it."
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