After a lengthy injury layoff, James returned to action last weekend in Chelsea’s 2-1 loss to Liverpool.

The right back from England did not accompany the squad to Thursday’s UEFA Conference League victory over Panathinaikos.

James is set to make his Premier League debut on Sunday against Newcastle, and Maresca is hoping he can bring more character to the game.

“I spoke with him and I expect from him more in terms of leadership inside the changing room,” Maresca informed the media.

I’m hoping for more, but he’s making progress, is doing well, and is on the road.

To a player, it often seems like you owe me more now that I’m captain. forth my opinion, no; as captain, you should be expected to put forth more effort. Extra effort is required of you. At times, as the captain, am I able to sacrifice more? Absolutely not.

“I expect it from Reece and his team-mates expect it from him to give always more in terms of leadership.”

James has had little on-field impact as captain due to his meager 12 appearances for the club since being presented the armband by Maresca’s predecessor Mauricio Pochettino.

The majority of previous season was spent under the leadership of Conor Gallagher, who has subsequently been sold to Atletico Madrid.

The Italian is now looking for leadership development opportunities within the locker room, however he did say that talks with James, the team’s more reserved member, about his expectations had been fruitful.

“He’s understanding that we’re expecting more from him,” according to him.

He’s one of our academy chums. That’s why it’s important for him to demonstrate more of his individuality.

“He’s calm and collected. But you have to create a leader when you don’t have one. In my opinion, we are lacking an effective leader. They must be constructed. One person who is coming but isn’t yet there is Reece. He must exert himself.