Reece James could not resist a cheeky jibe at Thiago Silva over his age – though he has nothing but respect for the Chelsea star.
James was appointed Chelsea captain this season after long-standing skipper Cesar Azpilicueta left in the summer for Atletico Madrid.
It came as a surprise to some that Silva did not take on the role as the most experienced player and still a formidable force in defence.
And with James already experiencing an injury-ravaged campaign, Silva has played every minute in the Premier League this season – at the age of 39.
Speaking to Chelsea’s official website, the England international joked the centre-back was old enough to be his dad, as he said: “The captaincy has been great.
“But it was difficult when I wasn’t fit because it is hard to affect things as much when I’m not with the group all the time.
“Thiago [Silva] probably helps me the most whenever I’m unsure, or I feel like I need advice on something.
“He is nearly old enough to be my dad! So he is the person I go to.
“It’s not for me to say what sort of captain I am, but I’ve enjoyed it so far. It’s an honour.”
Silva signed for Chelsea in 2020 on a free transfer after his Paris Saint-Germain contract expired.
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The French giants did not want to renew his deal due to his age, but the Brazil international has made a mockery of that decision by becoming a key part of Chelsea’s squad over three seasons, now in his his fourth year.
Initially signed on a one-year contract, Silva has proved integral to four different managers in Frank Lampard, Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter and Mauricio Pochettino.
There are reports that the veteran star could return to Brazil next summer though.
Fluminese, his first club at the age of 14 in 1998, are heavily linked with a transfer.
Silva also played for the Brazilian outfit from 2006 to 2009, initially on loan before joining permanently.