If you cast your mind back to this summer, one of the big debates was about who would be captain. The sheer turnover of players made making a new choice quite difficult.
In the end – not without controversy – Reece James was chosen. Mauricio Pochettino was asked to justify that choice at the time, and now he’s going through it all again after picking Levi Colwill to wear the armband on Wednesday night.
Speaking on the club’s official website, Pochettino made Colwill sound the natural choice to head the team while James was out:
“People who know Levi know he can deal with the captaincy because of his personality and character.
“He loves the club, he came from the Academy, and in four or five months, everyone respects him. He has the profile to be captain. We are building something for today, but for the future also. He’s a massive player for the future of the club.
“Experienced players don’t need to put the armband on to behave like a captain,’ Pochettino added.
“The decision is about giving responsibility and learning. For him it’s a massive test to be responsible for the team, and to learn.
“If we want young kids to become men and then great players, you need to trust them. And you need to trust them with your big mouth, not just trusting quietly.”
The Argentine coach, like so many managers coming to England, must be wondering why everyone is so obsessed with something which is ultimately just a formality.
We – and he – have far bigger problems to worry about right now.
Still, it was super to see another academy player wearing the armband. A little bit of cold comfort in dark times. We hope to see it plenty more in the future – congratulations Levi.
