Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has commended manager Enzo Maresca for his tactical ingenuity in deploying club captain Reece James in midfield during the Blues' 1-1 draw with Arsenal on Sunday.

Mikel, who hailed the Blues captain as the best right-back in the world, said the system provides Chelsea with greater balance in high-profile matches.

The former Nigerian international added that the England star has now fully adapted to the role despite the initial criticism it attracted.

"I just think Enzo Maresca has found this system of having the captain Reece James to play in midfield," Mikel said on The Obi One Podcast. 

"And a few times he tried it last year and a lot of people questioned him and criticized him for having to play in midfield, best right-back in the world, why do you play him in midfield?

"You can see now that the belief and the trust and confidence that the manager has in Reece James playing in midfield alongside Moise Caicedo in big games. It just keeps that balance in the team and we can see that's working wonders."

Mikel added that the system frees Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernández to take up more attacking positions, noting the improved chemistry within the squad.

"It is brilliant to see both of them complement each other and gives Enzo Fernandez the ability to go forward and get in the box," he added. 

James delivered a commanding performance against the Gunners, dictating play from midfield and providing the assist for Trevor Chalobah's opener.

Arsenal, however, restored parity through a Mikel Merino header to ensure the points were shared at Stamford Bridge.

Despite holding on for a draw with ten men, the Blues slipped to third on the log with 24 points from 13 Premier League matches, while Arsenal sit top of the table with 30 points.

The former Nigerian international will be eager to see the Blues build on their impressive form and secure maximum points in upcoming fixtures as they push to reclaim the top spot from the Gunners.

Adeyemi Adewale