Chelsea's next skipper? Mauricio Pochettino backs 20-year-old Levi Colwill to be future Blues captain after handing him armband vs Man Utd

The 20-year-old defender wore the captain's armband for the first time in his career as the Blues went down 1-2 against United in a Premier League clash in the midweek.

The Argentine manager felt that despite his lack of experience, the youngster has the personality of a leader and prophesied that he could lead the club in the future.

Speaking to reporters, Pochettino said, "No. It is (only seen as) a pressure for (people) who don’t know Levi. Levi can deal with it because of his personality and character. He loves the club, he came from the club (the academy) and in 4-5 months (with the first team) everyone respects him. He has the profile to be captain. We are building something for today but for the future also. He is a potentially massive player for the future of the club.

"My decision is about giving responsibility and a chance to learn. For him it is a massive test, to be responsible for the team. If we want young kids to become men and become great players, we need to trust them. I trust him because of his personality and character. Even if he doesn’t get the armband again this season because we have Reece, Ben Chilwell and Conor Gallagher, he has the profile. From what I can see, he is going to be the future of the club."

Following Cesar Azpilicueta's departure from the club, English full-back Reece James was named the next club captain just before the start of the 2023/24 season.

As James was not fit enough to feature in the starting lineup against the Red Devils, Colwill was handed the armband for the first time.

The young defender has already established himself as a mainstay in Pochettino's team in his maiden season with the Blues' senior squad. He has appeared in 17 matches across all competitions and scored his maiden goal for the club in their win over Brighton last weekend.

The England international will be next seen in action on Sunday when his club face Everton at Goodison Park.