Pochettino: Why Thiago Silva was not made Chelsea captain
Silva was neglected for the armband regardless of being probably the most skilled and adorned participant within the Chelsea squad.
Reece James changed Cesar Azpilicueta as Chelsea captain, with Ben Chilwell performing as his deputy.
Speaking forward of Sunday’s journey to West Ham, which James will miss attributable to a hamstring damage, Pochettino defined why Silva was not given the position.
Pochettino mentioned: “For many different reasons, I am looking not only in the present but for the future.
“It was a good situation because Reece is ready to be captain. When the player is clever like Thiago, who is 38 and nearly 39. Do you think he is thinking about needing the armband? He is a captain as well like Reece and Chilwell.
“You don’t need the armband on to feel like a captain. He is a captain also and will help Chilwell and Reece. He will be a great captain for the club.”
Silva stands out as the one outfield participant aged over 30 in Pochettino’s new-look Chelsea squad.
Pochettino has revealed he had a dialog with Silva concerning the modifications initially of the season, saying: “I told him ‘Look, Thiago I am not sure you are always going to play. You need to [fight], like any player who deserves to play.’
“He was really, really humble and is a fantastic footballer in his career. A good thing happened, it surprised me and I think we created a good and respectful relationship.
“He is going to play and show his quality. In a young squad — to have some experience like him — is always very helpful.”