Chelsea defender Thiago Silva has heaped praise on skipper Cesar Azpilicueta.

Azpilicueta has held the Chelsea armband since the start of the 2019/20 campaign, having previously been Gary Cahill's right-hand man following the departure of John Terry.

"As soon as I arrived, Azpilicueta was one of the first to write to me wishing me good luck in this new chapter," Thiago told the club's website.

"He is a spectacular guy, a super professional who undoubtedly deserves to be where he is and wear the armband, which means so much to him.

"There are different types of captains: there are those who talk more, and others who are quieter but mean a lot to the team. Azpilicueta has both aspects: he is very important on the field, and outside he brings the team together when necessary to talk about what is necessary and to make things clear so they don't go wrong."

The Brazilian also said: "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.

"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."