James joined Chelsea at six years old and progressed through the Academy ranks at Cobham. After a loan spell at Wigan Athletic, he was integrated into the first-team squad in the summer of 2019.

The 23-year-old has since become an integral part of the side; he has made 147 appearances and won the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup.

James admitted prior to our clash against Newcastle in Atlanta that he would like to take on the role of Chelsea captain. He was handed that opportunity by Mauricio Pochettino on Wednesday night.

The full-back completed 65 minutes of the 1-1 draw in the Mercedes-Benz Stadium – an impressive feat given James hadn't featured in match action since April – and then spoke about his love of the club.

'It’s kind of all I know,' said the England international. 'I've been on loan once but came back after one season.

'I've been at Chelsea my whole life; it’s always been Chelsea for me. It’s an honour to play for the club and to put the armband on was a great feeling.'

James added: ‘I haven’t played in three-and-a-half months, so it’s been a long time since I laced up. I felt good, it was a good step in the right direction for me. We’re training hard and it is paying off.’