Reece James scored a memorable brace in Chelsea’s 3-0 win at Newcastle United on Saturday afternoon, leading his manager Thomas Tuchel to say: ‘He shoots like a horse.’

Reece James double sinks Newcastle and stretches Chelsea’s lead at top (Picture: Darren Walsh/Getty Images)

The 21-year-old produced two impressive finishes, one with each foot, as he gave the Blues the lead at St James’ Park on 65 minutes and then double it 12 minutes later.

With Liverpool held at home by Brighton and Manchester City suffering a shock home defeat to Crystal Palace, it was a great day for Chelsea, who extended their lead at the top of the Premier League.

Asked whether James has been putting in the hours training on his shooting, Tuchel initially looked to dish out praise to other players, but then handed an unusual compliment to the wing-back, comparing him to a horse. He told the Hayters TV:

“It’s a complex game and I don’t think Reece can score if Callum [Hudson-Odoi] does do the dribbling and Chilly [Ben Chilwell] opens the space.

“We have Kai [Havertz] attacking the space and then Ruben [Loftus-Cheek]. This is why sometimes our strikers are sacrificing space. We don’t need exercise shooting with Reece, he shoots like a horse.”

Chelsea celebrate their second goal against Newcastle (Picture: MatchDay Images Limited)

The Blues are back in action on Tuesday night at Malmo in the Champions League before hosting Burnley in the Premier League next Saturday.


Follow us on: Facebook | Instagram