Trevoh Chalobah makes Chelsea promise as Mauricio Pochettino dealt £34.6m transfer dilemma

Trevoh Chalobah can establish himself as a key member of the Chelsea squad for years to come if he manages to impress Mauricio Pochettino in pre-season

Trevoh Chalobah believes that he's ready for a leadership role at Chelsea after Mauricio Pochettino handed him the captain's armband in his opening game in charge. The defender, who has been heavily linked with an exit from Stamford Bridge recently, led a young Blues side to a 5-0 win over Wrexham.

Despite only turning 24 earlier this month, Chalobah was the oldest player in the Chelsea starting lineup which walked out in Chapel Hill to face the League Two outfit. In an interview with the official club website, the Cobham graduate recognised his responsibility and insisted that he's ready to become a leader.

"It’s crazy how the years are going by," said Chalobah. "I’m into my third season and now one of the more senior players in this young squad.

"To have that responsibility is good, and it is important to support the younger players and make them feel comfortable in the squad. I know what that feels like. I was once in their boots."

With Pochettino eager to launch an exciting project in west London, Chalobah claimed that he can help the Argentine 'set the standards'. The £34.6million-rated defender added: "I think it’s important that I help set the standards.

"I know the club inside out and I hope for the younger players that I can be a leader and someone they feel comfortable to talk to. But I’m still young as well, so there will be things that I can learn from them too.

"Sticking together like that is what we need to do this season. We’re going to need everyone. The new players have settled in well. That is what is good about this group, everyone is made to feel welcome.

"I