James and Zaha get into it on social media after pocketing

Following Chelsea beating Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, Reece James and Wilfried Zaha goaded one another on social media because the Ivorian was pocketed.

Graham Potter has a fortunate foundation to build upon thanks to a wonder-goal from up-and-coming Blue, Conor Gallagher. Gallagher enjoyed an overall successful campaign with Patrick Vieira’s team last season; the Eagles wanted the midfielder back in 2022/23, but instead he returned to claim CFC’s win.

Potter’s side didn’t create an abundance of clear cut chances, yet when opportunities arose, expert finishing was applied. Other positive signs of the former Brighton & Hove Albion boss’s new reign included searching and accurate long passes from deep, in cultured although direct fashion. In addition to a slightly more free feeling attack, which encourages creativity.

There are still areas to address for the gaffer, midfield being a prime example. Jorginho and Mateo Kovacic certainly struggled at times, again. For all their shared and personal qualities, the balance is off at present. N’golo Kante will surely readdress that issue in part. Gallagher obviously now gives the head coach a headache, especially with Mason Mount underperforming as well.

Chelsea defender Reece James and Wilfried Zaha trade blows on social media

One of the other noticeable and duly notable occurrences of the meeting was how Reece James dealt with the dangerous and volatile Wilfried Zaha of Palace. The Ivory Coast winger is a difficult footballer to contain, but the multitalented England man shackled his opponent. While Zaha has a more fiery on-pitch persona, James exhibits more coolness and focused professionalism – leading to a most watchable duel.

Following the Chels’ victory, the rightback went on social media to have a cryptic gloat about holding down the wingman. The 22-year-old posted a photograph of himself during the game with the ball, accompanied by the 29-year-old trailing the play with a padlock emoji.

As you can see above, in a now deleted Instagram response, the Ivorian was not best pleased. Clout chasing is a much discussed topic these days, and Zaha accused James of as much. As for “ya’ll be safe”, I guess he means take it easy with the boasting as it may come back to haunt you.

It seems Zaha didn’t stand by his retort. Afterwards, early Sunday morning, the Eagle tweeted once more, this time it was that type of irritating football cliche in the form of ‘we go again’.

The pair have met on the field of play for a few years now. there is no love lost.