We sealed a place in the Champions League Round of 16 with what James described as a ‘special performance from a special group’ in Naples. The Blues fought back from 2-1 down at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona to ensure James' 50th game wearing the captain’s armband ended in a 3-2 victory.

Enzo Fernandez’s spot-kick and a Joao Pedro brace ensured we bypassed the knockout stage play-offs, and James believes the display underlined the progress being made by a Chelsea side with ambitions of further success.

‘We’re progressing, we’re learning, we’re adapting, and we’re evolving with every opportunity we get, and I think we showed that against Napoli,’ James said.

‘Napoli is always a super difficult place to come; it’s an amazing stadium with an amazing atmosphere. The game was difficult, but it's a huge step in the right direction.

‘It was a special performance from a special group. It's a super tough place to come and win, especially when they’re leading. I think that was a statement win.’

Having previously started games as a right-back and midfielder this season, Rosenior opted to deploy James at centre-back in Naples. And the Academy graduate is relishing the challenge of adapting his game to the demands of our head coach.

‘When a new manager arrives, there’s a different style of play, and everyone is adapting and trying to learn as quickly as possible, but the results speak for themselves,’ he continued.

‘It’s still early, and we’re still learning and getting to know him and the style of football he wants to play, but every session and every game we’re improving.’

One of the standout performers on the night was Cole Palmer, who bagged two assists after coming on from the bench during the interval.

Although the 23-year-old has struggled for fitness this season, Reece said Palmer's performance in Naples was a clear and timely reminder of his fellow England international's quality.

Reece added: ‘Cole been in a difficult period, and he’s had a few setbacks. We’re super happy to have him, and he showed against Napoli what he can do, even in just the 45 minutes he played.

'Everyone needs to stay patient with him. He’s an amazing player, and he is still super young.’