Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta says he takes his role seriously.

It is communication like that that stands out as one of the pillars of being a successful captain, something Azpilicueta acknowledges in his assessment of leading a football team.

"Each captain does the job in a very different personal way, but you have to show it every day, in the good times, in the difficult ones, to lead by example and always be there," the 32-year-old emphasised.

"You might be living a different moment to the person next to you, but if they need that help you must be there to give it. I have a great relationship with everyone in the dressing room. Each player is different, each one is going through different situations, emotional states and you have to know when one thing or another is necessary, but the relationship is fantastic.

"We have an incredible group. I always try to contribute my maximum to that and, above all, during the difficult moments. That is when you have to be there the most."