Chelsea's wing-backs R. James and Chilwell have both been priced at 6.0 ahead of the 2022/23 season and in this blog their numbers last season are compared using the Fix Heatmaps feature. Averages are used since Chilwell missed most of the season through injury.

The sample size for Chilwell's data is of course limited but it is nevertheless impressive that the left-back averaged 7.9 points per game (PPG). R. James also posted an impressive 5.4 PPG and it was over a much larger sample size which would indicate it is more sustainable.

The Heatmaps for both wing-backs is very attacking with plenty of touches in the penalty area. Both have an average attacking position well into the opposition's half but it is noticeable that Chilwell's shot positions appear to be more central and the attempts would likely be of better quality.

There is not much to split the two in terms of the 'Average Defensive Radar' but the 'Average Attacking Radar' shows a significant contrast in style. R. James creative numbers appear to be far superior with Chilwell more of a goal threat.

The numbers back up what was observed on the radars, Chilwell averaged nearly double the number of shots in the box (0.89 vs 1.66) and his shots were of better quality as the 'Expected Goals' numbers show (0.12 vs 0.19). However, R. James blows him away for creativity with 2.26 attempted assists per match to Chilwell's 1.66 and an impressive 0.42 'big chances' per game to the left-back's 0.17. However, with goals (six) counting for double the points as assists (three) for defenders, Chilwell perhaps slightly has the edge with Chelsea's lack of centre-backs occasionally forcing R. James to a more defensive role.

As the above image from our Fixture Analyser shows, Chelsea have a good run of fixtures for the first six gameweeks and investment in either Chelsea wing-back looks like a wise move.