Paul Merson blown away by “phenomenal” goal from Chelsea star Reece James

Paul Merson was left blown away by the opening goal from Chelsea player Reece James in a 4-0 win against Burnley this afternoon.

After a quiet first half, the Blues burst into life in the second period to score four answered goals, wrapping up three points in the Premier League on Saturday.

James, 22, was the player to break the deadlock a couple of minutes into the second period.

The right wing-back, whose return from injury is so vital to Thomas Tuchel’s side, fired in a powerful low finish from inside the box.

He showed tremendous agility and trickery to make room for his shot in the penalty area, which explains why he’s now scored six goals and made six assists in only 26 appearances this season.

“What a goal by Reece James. This lad could play centre-forward… It’s a phenomenal finish, so much composure,” Merson told Sky Sports.

In addition, Kai Havertz (two) and Christian Pulisic scored for Chelsea during a dominant second half.

The result means the Blues are now sat third in the league table six points above fourth-placed Manchester United.

James pivotal to Chelsea

Thankfully, James is now back available again after missing a couple of months at the start of 2022 with a hamstring injury.

He’s so influential for going forward in Tuchel’s system and plays so high up the pitch.

The wing-back was too hot for Burnley to handle at the start of the second half, something which opposition teams usually have a big problem with.

He’s one of the first names in Tuchel’s starting XI when he plays like he can.

It makes you wonder how much Chelsea would’ve been to the top two this had wing-back duo James and Ben Chilwell not suffered long-term injury issues