For James, captaining Colombia is the ultimate honour and, even at 34, he’s actually got a shot at adding to his World Cup legacy.
Another Golden Boot may be beyond him but, as James showed by being named Player of the Tournament at the 2024 Copa America, his vision is still 20-20, and he’s surrounded by a number of more-than-willing runners, chief among them, Bayern Munich’s brilliant winger Luis Diaz.
The latter is obviously Colombia’s best player these days – and by some distance – but even in Diaz’s eyes, he’s merely a potential heir to King James’ throne. According to the former Liverpool man, James remains “the idol of idols” in Colombia because of his exploits in Brazil more than a decade ago.
Who knows, then, what James might achieve at his third and final World Cup? He’s clearly going to have the full support of colleagues, coach and country. And, of course, those that love beautiful football.
