Reece James has spoken out the influence former Chelsea and England star Ashley Cole has had on his career so far.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, the Blues defender revealed that he looked up to Cole and Frank Lampard during their playing days at Stamford Bridge.
Cole has since had a big role mentoring James, who is expected to feature for England in the Euros.
“Me and him speak nearly every week. He’s probably one of the best left-backs to play the game,” said James.
“Even though he was a left-back, the position is basically the same (as right-back) – just on the other side. He helps me a lot.
“I always looked up to Frank Lampard because he played for the club I always supported – and Ashley Cole as well, similar (reasons).
“I always supported and looked up to the boys that played for the team I supported.”
James also revealed that Gareth Southgate has watched him play in three different positions during England’s training sessions.
He said: “The positions you could guess: wing-back, centre-back and right-back. I’ve played all three so far.
“I don’t really know what’s going to happen or what position I might feature in.”