Chelsea star Reece James has been criticised for his 'horrid' positioning in the build up to West Ham's first half goal today.

The Lowdown: Derby day...

The Blues travelled across London to face their capital city rivals in what was an interesting contest.

West Ham, who are battling against Premier League relegation, could not be in a more different scenario to Chelsea who are looking to kick on and build after lavish squad investment.

Graham Potter's men couldn't have got off to a better start, taking the lead through Joao Felix who fed off Enzo Fernandez' sumptuous cross with a delicate first time finish.

Chelsea dominated right from the off but, in an unexpected twist, West Ham found themselves back in it when former Stamford Bridge defender Emerson Palmieri buried a flick-on at the back post.

The away side couldn't regain their lead and nearly found themselves behind but for VAR.

Tomas Soucek's late goal was ruled out for offside with the encounter ending 1-1.

The Latest: James criticise for Emerson goal...

For West Ham's first half equaliser, Emerson found himself in acres of space - leading to broadcaster Nubaid Haroon criticising James' positioning in the build up to that crucial goal.

He explained:

"That Emerson goal is hilarious btw. Reece James’ positioning is horrid"

The Verdict: Bad day defensively?

Going forward, the England international was as threatening as ever - making two key passes whilst also attempting a shot on target (SofaScore).

James also put five crosses into the West Ham box, and while none of them resulted in a goal, the right-back's presence going forward was there.

However, you could say this was an off day for James defensively, having lost the majority of both his ground duels and aerial duels this afternoon (SofaScore).

The 23-year-old's positioning for West Ham's only goal was also poor given he appeared to be ball-watching - which ultimately allowed Emerson to ghost in and score the home side's equaliser.