Reece James: The Chelsea captain in his own words in a BBC Sport football interview

Kelly: What does a typical day off look like for you, if you’re taking a day away from football?

Reese: If it’s pre-season I won’t leave the house, because I’m tired. I would literally be in bed all day. If it’s in season, I’ll probably go to London with my friends to see what they’re up to.

Kelly: How can you escape, because football is so intense?

Reese: When I get home, I just try not to think too much, and take things in stride.

Kelly: Fashion is a big thing for you, do you like modeling?

Reese: I love modeling, yes, depending on the time of year. Fashion is good – it’s something I care about and enjoy.

Kelly: How would you describe your taste in fashion?

Reese: Now it’s even cooler. A few years ago, it was a bit more exciting.

Kelly: Is this due to maturity?

Reese: Maybe boredom!

Kelly: How do your friends describe you? I came across as super relaxing. Would they say the same thing?

Reese: Most of the time, yes. I have a sharper side too. Not everything goes my way. Sometimes I’m not in a good mood, and they see that more than others.

Kelly: Has your personality changed as you’ve gotten older and everything you’ve been through?

Reese: Yes very much. I’ve had a lot of disappointment and setbacks. This changes the way you think and look at things.

Kelly: Do you think being a leader has changed you too?

Reese: Yes, it has benefited me and helped me grow as a person. I need to help my younger teammates and try to improve them as players and as people.

Kelly: How do your teammates describe you?

Reese: Why don’t we pull one of them! That would be a little easier. Maybe they’ll say I’m cold too.

Kelly: But you’re not cold on the field, I’ve seen you play. There seems to be a very different Reece James sitting here than the Captain Reece James.

Reese: Not sure what’s going on. It’s all or nothing on the field, and then off the field, it seems like whatever happens, happens.

Kelly: YOUR FRIENDSHIP WITH LEWIS HAMILTON He sent you congratulations not just from someone watching, but from someone who clearly knows you. Talk to me about that relationship with him.

Reese: We’re reasonably close. He is probably the greatest Formula 1 driver to ever live. I know we play different sports, but there are many similarities. He tries to help me wherever he can, when I’m going through difficult periods, because he’s been at a high level for longer, and he’s been through more.

Kelly: How did you know each other?

Reese: Through a mutual friend, we have been in touch ever since.

Kelly: What are you most proud of?

Reese: Maybe it’s the trophies I’ve won for the club.

Kelly: Any one in particular?

Reese: I wouldn’t pick, they all play a big role together.

Kelly: Tell me about the thing people get most wrong about you.

Reese: I don’t know, to be honest. A lot of people say a lot of things. Everyone has their opinion, but it doesn’t really bother me. I don’t know if I’m seeing anything, I’m not really paying attention anyway.

Kelly: If you could only achieve one thing for the rest of your career, what would it be?

Reese: To win the World Cup.