James has actually not been able to lead Chelsea out too many times this season because of injury. The 23-year-old has only made three starts in the Premier League so far, but two of those have come in his side’s last two games against Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur.

They were really intense matches, but James managed to come out of them unscathed, which is great news for Mauricio Pochettino.

Reece James getting help from team-mate

James has told Chelsea’s official club website that he goes to Thiago Silva when he needs help with anything.

“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,” the England international said.

“Thiago 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.”

Thiago Silva a great asset on and off the pitch

The above is just one more reason why Chelsea should not be letting Silva go.

The central defender is out of contract at the end of the season and is a target for Fluminense, but we think it would be a mistake to get rid of him.

James is not the only Chelsea player who Silva is having a positive influence on, with Conor Gallagher having also said something similar to his captain recently.

In terms of on the pitch, the Brazil international is very much still performing. He has not missed a single game in the Premier League so far this term.

If Silva wants to stay at Chelsea for another year, the club would be foolish not to hand him a new deal.