Having been a member of England’s squad which finished third at this summer’s World Cup, James only returned to training earlier this week.

So Alonso has now had the chance to work with him on the pitches at Cobham, and see him in action from the touchline during a match. Our manager is well placed to outline the qualities James brings to the side.

‘Personality, leadership, experience, quality, composure with the ball, competitiveness without the ball,’ said Alonso.

‘He’s very flexible in his style and in different positions, he’s a legend in the club, and he is a key player for the team.’

James was not the only player to return to training this week. Like our skipper, new signings Maxence Lacroix and Morgan Rogers got an hour against Sociedad, with the latter opening the scoring in Saturday’s sunny victory in SW6.

Alonso gave his verdict on those who were back on the pitch following their extended involvement at the World Cup.

‘They did quite well to play this well after just three days of training,’ said Alonso.

‘It’s early days and there is so much to connect and improve and live together, but the most important is the hunger and the desire they have to want to have a great season and create a good feeling in the team that will transmit to the rest.

‘Most of the players are fit to train. The fitness levels of some are higher than others after pre-season, but all of them will be good. We plan to have five training sessions before the Fulham game now and that’s the main focus.’