Reports have emerged claiming that members inside the Chelsea squad already have someone in mind as Azpilicueta’s successor.
Mason Mount is reportedly in pole position to become Cesar Azpilicueta’s successor as Chelsea captain, according to The Athletic.
Talk of Mount taking on the skipper’s armband has grown since Frank Lampard handed him the honor in an FA Cup fourth-round match against Luton Town, which was incidentally the Blues icon’s last game as manager.
“He deserves it,” said Lampard at the time.
“He is playing like a captain and he played like a captain recently and all season. He loves Chelsea and came through the academy.”
“Many inside of Chelsea are already talking about Mason Mount as the next full time leader of this squad.”
– The Athletic pic.twitter.com/zuW9K8d7Wz
— TheScore (@TheScore01) March 22, 2021
Lampard’s replacement Thomas Tuchel followed suit on Sunday by naming Mount as captain in another FA Cup game against Sheffield United, despite him being the fourth-youngest player.
While Mount couldn’t make a decisive impact, the 22-year-old led Chelsea to the semi-finals with a 2-0 win.
“He deserves it, leadership isn’t a question of age and he has everything you need to lead the team out here in this game,” Tuchel told BBC before kick-off.
Many members inside the Blues squad have now reportedly discussed the prospect of Mount becoming the next full-time captain once Azpilicueta steps down.
Tuchel has clarified that Jorginho, Thiago Silva, N’Golo Kante currently would be preferred for the role if Azpilicueta is unavailable on matchdays.
Unlike the above mentioned players, however, Mount is still young and could have a long future at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea legends John Terry and Ashley Cole have also backed him to become the captain some day.
Be sure not to miss out on the latest news about Mason Mount
Download our brand new App and follow your favorite players, clubs, and much more
