Jorginho explains why James didn't take Chelsea penalty to complete hat-trick

Jorginho insists Reece James did not ask to take Chelsea's late penalty against Newcastle United despite the fact he was chasing a hat-trick.

James, 21, scored two exceptional goals to put the Blues in command at St James' Park as they finally broke through a stubborn Magpies defence in the second half.

The right-back is renowned for his attacking contributions and he has already racked up four goals and three assists in all competitions this season.

Chelsea were presented with the chance to extend their lead in the 81st minute as Kai Havertz was fouled in the area and referee Paul Tierney pointed to the spot.

Many expected James would take the penalty in search of his first career hat-trick, but regular taker Jorginho stepped up from 12 yards.

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The Italian made no mistake, rifling down the middle to put Chelsea 3-0 up and secure three points to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League.

Eagle-eyed fans noticed James had a quick exchange with Jorginho before the penalty, but the 29-year-old says his teammate was merely encouraging him rather than asking to take it.

"If he had asked, we would have had a conversation but he didn't," Jorginho told ESPN Brasil after the game. "He came over to support me."

James' two goals were powerful efforts in the 65th and 77th minutes after the ball fell to him in the area, with the first scored with his left foot and the second with his right.

"He's amazing with both feet, so he opened the game for us and it was great, it was a beautiful goal," said Jorginho of James and the opening goal.

Comparing his two strikes, England international James added: "I think the first one was probably better, it was on my weaker foot and it was a good finish.

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"The ball came to me in the box and I was going to take it first time but I decided to take a touch and it opened up on my left, so I cut inside and took it on my left foot.

"The strike was good, as soon as it left my foot I knew it was a goal.

"The second one was easier, the goalie wasn't really in the goal. It was almost an empty goal so I just put my foot through it!"