Frank Lampard has delivered a ringing endorsement of Reece James, declaring the Chelsea captain "one of the best right-backs in the world" and urging England boss Thomas Tuchel to build his World Cup plans around the "special" talent.

The former Chelsea manager, who handed James his senior debut at Stamford Bridge, believes the 25-year-old should be a guaranteed starter for the Three Lions this summer. Speaking to talkSPORT, Lampard didn't hold back: "Without picking Thomas' squad for him, I think Reece James is one of the best right-backs in the world without a doubt. I want to see him fit and playing again because he’s a special player."

James, now club captain and a Champions League winner, has battled back from a hamstring injury to rediscover his best form this season. His versatility has been on full display, excelling both at right-back and in midfield—a quality that makes him invaluable for club and country. Chelsea have certainly felt his absence during their recent five-match losing streak in the league.

With the World Cup on the horizon, James is expected to be fit and ready to play a key role. Tuchel, who knows the defender well from their time together at Chelsea, already views him as the first-choice right-back for England. Lampard's comments only reinforce what many fans and pundits have been saying: when fit, James is among the elite at his position.

For Chelsea supporters, seeing their academy graduate and captain earn such high praise is a reminder of the talent in their ranks. As the summer tournament approaches, all eyes will be on James's recovery and his potential to shine on the biggest stage.