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Chelsea manager Frank Lampard will be pleased with the kind of competition he has in the right-back position, as youngster Reece James will be battling captain Cesar Azpilicueta, to be first choice in that position all season long.

Azpilicueta is known for his consistency and professionalism, and the Spaniard has been a top player over the years.

Azpilicueta has played at the top for many years, and was even teammates with Frank Lampard towards the end of Lampard’s career with Chelsea.

The Blues boss has hailed Azpilicueta, and insists that his skipper doesn’t deserve to miss back to back games.

“He’s done a great job of being club captain,” said the Chelsea boss.

“Since I’ve been in the role he’s been a huge help to me in terms of how he’s handled himself on and off the pitch, how much he feels for this club, how much he communicates with the squad.

“We can all see the quality of Reece James and the competition I have in that right-back position. Azpi’s professionalism means he is going to be as important for us this year as he always is.

“I can’t ask players who are as competitive as Azpi to be content with missing one game,” added Lampard.

“Every player should be really keen to play every game; I know Azpi is like that. I know that from playing with him. But when you have someone like Azpi, with the qualities he has as captain, I know he gives everything, whether he plays or sometimes he doesn’t, he will have the same positive impact on the group off the pitch. That’s all I can ask for, and it’s a pleasure to have him.”

Reece James started in right-back against Brighton and even scored a banging goal to help his side win the game 3-1.