He did not make his first official first team appearance for Shelbourne until August 15, 2005 where he made his debut coming on as a 2nd half substitute during a 1-0 defeat to Cork City at Turner's Cross. In order to aid James with his development and to gain valuable experience, he was loaned out to Waterford United for the 2006 season and instantly became a regular in their starting XI. On February 24, 2007, Chambers received a call up to the Republic of Ireland U21 squad by manager Don Givens. Chambers returned to Shelbourne for the 2007 season but he was entering upon a very unfamiliar environment at the Tolka Park club.
Chambers
Don Givens