Mauricio Pochettino has shed light on his decision to appoint Reece James as the captain, opting for him over experienced players like Thiago Silva.

Reece James was the chosen one for the armband at Chelsea

LARGER CONTEXT

Despite the honor bestowed upon James, it appears that the newly-appointed captain might not be on the field for a while. He was substituted after just over an hour during the opening-day draw against Liverpool due to a hamstring injury. This latest injury setback is another in a series that has affected the 23-year-old’s career.

The hamstring injury is a big obtacle for James’ career

WHAT OCCURRED

The captain’s armband was passed to James following the departure of long-serving skipper Cesar Azpilicueta during the summer transfer window. Many anticipated that the veteran defender Silva would assume the role, yet Pochettino chose the younger alternative.

After Azpilicueta, Silva was considered to be Chelsea captain

STATEMENTS MADE

Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s match against West Ham on Sunday, Pochettino explained, “I consider both the present and the future for many reasons. Reece was ready to be the captain, and it was a favorable situation. When you have intelligent players like Thiago, who is almost 39, do you think he’s preoccupied with needing the armband? He, like Reece and Chilwell, is a captain. The armband isn’t necessary to embody leadership. He will support Chilwell and Reece and will be an exceptional captain for the club.”

Reece James was the last choice of The Blues’ staff