![Reece James names Chelsea captain [@Chelseafc/Twitter]](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/70fb8e_e6c43899cb744bd987d056edb6592d78~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_980,h_1225,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/70fb8e_e6c43899cb744bd987d056edb6592d78~mv2.jpg)
Reece James has been appointed as the fresh club captain for Chelsea in anticipation of the upcoming Premier League season.
At 23, the English international takes over from Cesar Azpilicueta, who departed Chelsea to join Atletico Madrid on a free transfer earlier this summer.
Hailing from the Chelsea Academy, James has been an integral part of the West London club since he was just six years old.
Speaking after making James the new Blues leader, new Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino told the club’s official website: "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."
At the same time, James added: "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."
This weekend, James might step onto the field as Chelsea's club captain for the first time as they welcome Liverpool in their opening Premier League match of the 2023-24 season.
Comments