Pochettino decision made as NEW Captain sends message after Chelsea announcement

Reece James has been named as the new Captain of Chelsea, and he is delighted with the announcement.

Reece James was limited to 24 appearances last term due to injury but has featured regularly throughout pre-season under Mauricio Pochettino.

The 23-year-old, who came through CHELSEA’s academy, takes the armband from Cesar Azpilicueta, who left Stamford Bridge to join Atletico Madrid earlier this summer, and he is set to wear the armband for Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Liverpool on Sunday.

WHAT HAS BEEN SAID –

‘I’m so happy to take on the role and responsibility,’ said James. ‘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.’

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino said: ‘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. He proudly wore the armband during our summer tour and will take up the challenge of leading our squad with his own approach and ideas.’

Co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart said: ‘Reece’s connection with Chelsea has been forged over 17 years. He understands the traditions of the club and the responsibilities that come with being captain.

‘He knows the standards required to win at this club – both from his time in the Academy and the first team – and it is a very proud moment for Reece and everyone connected to the club.’

Chelsea captain. 💙 pic.twitter.com/tS7s8iX4aU

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 9, 2023

WILL JAMES BE A GOOD CAPTAIN?

With all the world class players that are at the club – with all the big names – it has come as a bit of a shock to see that James is the now captain of the club.

But Pochettino knows what he is doing and fans will be delighted with the news – he should be a very good captain.

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