Chelsea captain Reece James says senior teammate Thiago Silva has been a great support.

James is in his first season as club skipper.

"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," James said to Chelsea's official website.

"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."