“Big shoes to fill”: 23-year-old star speaks first words after being named Chelsea captain

Reece James is excited to become the Chelsea captain and talks about the legendary leaders this club has had in the past

Chelsea have named Reece James as their men’s team captain ahead of the start of the 2023/24 season. The Englishman replaces Cesar Azpilicueta, who left the club this summer to sign for Atletico Madrid.

It took Mauricio Pochettino some time to decide on the new captain because we are only four days away from the Blues’ first game of the season against Liverpool.

But, knowing that the manager arrived this summer itself, it is understandable why he gave himself as much time as possible to analyse the players in the squad on and off the field.

Talking to the media after being appointed as the new captain, James shared his excitement but also made sure to point out the “big boots” he has to fill while wearing the armband. Here’s what the 23-year-old said (quoted by The Athletic, subscription required):

“I’m so happy to take on the role and responsibility. 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.”

If we look through the squad, there aren’t many natural leadership candidates. Thiago Silva could have been an obvious choice but he is 38 now and would not be a long-term answer to the question.

A few days ago, Ben Chilwell expressed his desire to take over the role if asked. He talked about his experience as a captain during his youth playing days.

All in all, it feels as if Pochettino has made the right choice. James has been at Chelsea since the Academy days and he knows the club inside out.

The 23-year-old would most probably stay here till the end of his career unless something severely breaks down. Moreover, he is a fantastic player who has the credentials to do even better when there is an added responsibility of leading by example.

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He will have time to learn on the job because Chelsea are not playing in Europe this season. There will be enough gaps between games to iron out the mistakes and go again.