Reece James hopes statement Club World Cup win can fuel Premier League title bid

Chelsea captain Reece James has hailed his side's massive FIFA Club World Cup win and hopes it will give them a springboard into next season. 

The Blues pulled off a shockingly convincing win over European Champions in Sunday's final, thanks in large part to Cole Palmer, who scored twice and set up the other goal for Joao Pedro in a 3-0 win. 

The victory saw the West Londoners become the first winners of the revamped competition and James thinks the statement made in the manner of the triumph could propel his side to a Premier League title bid in 2025-26. 

"We're moving in the right direction," he told Sky Sports. 

"Winning this trophy sends a big statement and I'm happy how much this club has progressed. I hope next season we'll compete in the Premier League to win the title and compete to go far in the Champions League as well." 

The England defender also lifted the lid on the moment U.S. President Donald Trump presented him with the Club World Cup trophy. 

After handing over the prize, Trump unusually stayed by the side of the players and was right next to James and his teammates as they celebrated the win. 

Adding, "Before they told me he was going to present the trophy and then exit the stage, so I thought he was going to exit at that point. However, he wanted to stay!" 

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