20 August 2023 , 09:55
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Mauricio Pochettino believes Thiago Silva "is a captain" as he explained his long-term vision by giving Reece James the armband at Chelsea.
The academy graduate was handed the captaincy in the summer despite there being several contenders. Silva has enjoyed a trophy-laden career and moved to Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2020, highlighting his quality and leadership skills throughout his spell.
He was overlooked though for the captaincy with James taking on the role for the first time in the opening game against Liverpool. The versatile wing-back has become a leading light in west London with Pochettino confident that the 23-year-old England international is ready for the responsibility.
The Argentine said on his decision: “For many different reasons, I am looking not only in the present but for the future. It was a good situation because Reece is ready to be captain. When the player is clever like Thiago, who is 38 and nearly 39. Do you think he is thinking about needing the armband? He is a captain as well like Reece and Chilwell.
“You don’t need the armband on to feel like a captain. He is a captain also and will help Chilwell and Reece. He will be a great captain for the club.”
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Pochettino also detailed a conversation with the veteran Brazilian in which he outlined his role going forward and cited what he hopes he will bring to what is a young squad.
He said: “I told him ‘Look, Thiago I am not sure you are always going to play. You need to [fight], like any player who deserves to play.’ He was really, really humble and is a fantastic footballer in his career. A good thing happened, it surprised me and I think we created a good and respectful relationship. He is going to play and show his quality. In a young squad — to have some experience like him — is always very helpful.”
Chelsea have a host of options in central defence, which will already be giving their boss a selection headache. On the opening weekend Silva started with Levi Colwill one side and Axel Disasi, who scored on his debut, to the right of him. It did leave the likes of Wesley Fofana and Benoît Badiashile looking on - two men who will feel as though they deserve starting roles.
Pochettino was dealt a blow against Liverpool however with his newly appointed skipper coming off with an injury concern. The Blues boss confirmed that James would be sidelined for weeks, rather than days.