James in funny jibe about Thiago Silva's age but gives Chelsea star huge praise

James was appointed Chelsea captain this season after long-standing skipper Cesar Azpilicueta left in the summer for Atletico Madrid.

It came as a surprise to some that Silva did not take on the role as the most experienced player and still a formidable force in defence.

And with James already experiencing an injury-ravaged campaign, Silva has played every minute in the Premier League this season - at the age of 39.

Speaking to Chelsea's official website, the England international joked the centre-back was old enough to be his dad, as he said: "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.

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"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."

Silva signed for Chelsea in 2020 on a free transfer after his Paris Saint-Germain contract expired.

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The French giants did not want to renew his deal due to his age, but the Brazil international has made a mockery of that decision by becoming a key part of Chelsea's squad over three seasons, now in his his fourth year.

Initially signed on a one-year contract, Silva has proved integral to four different managers in Frank Lampard, Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter and Mauricio Pochettino.

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There are reports that the veteran star could return to Brazil next summer though.

Fluminese, his first club at the age of 14 in 1998, are heavily linked with a transfer.

Silva also played for the Brazilian outfit from 2006 to 2009, initially on loan before joining permanently.