Chelsea FC manager Mauricio Pochetino has appointed England right-back Reece James as the club’s new captain.
Cesar Azpilicueta, who departed the club after 11 years, has been formally replaced by the 23-year-old.
James has been a vital player for the Blues since joining the club at the age of six and finally making his first-team debut in 2018. Under Pochetino, he is now anticipated to lead the squad in the next years, aided by his compatriot Ben Chilwell.
“This is a decision taken by me and the club. We are very pleased Reece will captain the side this season. He leads by example and his attitude and dedication to Chelsea has been clear throughout pre-season,” stated Pochettino.
James acknowledged the new task and committed to leading with zeal, aspiring to follow in the footsteps of John Terry and Frank Lampard.
“I’m so happy to take on the role and responsibility,’ he told the club’s website. ‘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,” he added.
James has won the UEFA Champions League, Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup with Chelsea and would like to win more as captain.
On Sunday, Chelsea will kick off their season with a critical match against Liverpool.