Academy graduate Reece James has been named Chelsea's new captain following Cesar Azpilicueta's summer departure to Atletico Madrid.
WHAT HAPPENED? The defender fulfils a lifelong dream by taking on the armband having joined the Blues aged six. Now 23, James has been picked to replace former club captain Azpilicueta by new head coach Mauricio Pochettino, ahead of veteran centre-back Thiago Silva.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Silva has captained Chelsea on multiple occasions in the past, but Pochettino has opted for James in a decision made alongside the club. Having been limited to just 24 appearances last season due to injury, the wing-back will hope to put his fitness issues behind him to fulfil the role to the best of his abilities.

WHAT THEY SAID?: Speaking to Chelsea's official website, James said: "I know I've got big shoes to fill because we have had huge captains here in the past, but I am excited. I have been at Chelsea pretty much my whole life. I started here when I was six and to come through the Academy is tough. But to go on and become captain, it's a great feeling for me and my family."

SOURCE
https://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/reece-james-named-new-chelsea-captain-cesar-azpilicueta/blt02b51b8b74c6174a

Seun
Lalasticlala
Mynd44

Why will you give James Captain when Thiago is there🤔🤨

Acekidc4:
Why will you give James Captain when Thiago is there🤔🤨

Thiago Silva hardly plays 3-4 games straight, it’s good we picked Reece who will obviously be more present (w/o injuries) than Thiago. Beside RJ was always going to be a Chelsea Captain

I Hope 🤞 and prays 🙏 he makes a great leader and unites the players together

I really thought it was going to be Thiago. Oh well, I'm sure Pochettino knows what he is doing.

kerchak:
I really thought it was going to be Thiago. Oh well, I'm sure Pochettino knows what he is doing.

Most matches Thiago played last season he was the captain when Azpi wasn’t on the pitch. Besides RJ will be here for a long time. It’s good that he became captain this early. Could be more motivation for him to stay fit

Yeah, let's see how it goes

Kpeshi10:

Most matches Thiago played last season he was the captain when Azpi wasn’t on the pitch. Besides RJ will be here for a long time. It’s good that he became captain this early. Could be more motivation for him to stay fit

Congratulations to him but he should try and avoid injuries. I hate it whenever I see him walking outta the pitch injured.