Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo is eager to repay the unwavering faith shown in him by manager Xabi Alonso by developing into a more vocal and commanding leader on the pitch.
Caicedo recently made his first start under Alonso following a brief spell on the sidelines through injury, anchoring the team in their resounding 5-1 victory over Bournemouth.
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Though the 24-year-old Ecuadorian is already an established member of the leadership group at Chelsea’s Cobham training ground, he admits that vocal communication on matchdays does not always come naturally. Speaking to the club’s official website, Caicedo reflected on his growth and the advice he has received from his managers.
“With Xabi I am going to keep developing, for sure, and show him why he trusts me,” Caicedo said.
“I think every coach tells me that I can improve talking on the pitch, you know? Because they know that I’m a leader, but it will be better for me if I start talking more with the players. I try my best, but it’s not in my nature. So when I’m not able to talk, I just try to show even more.”
Drawing inspiration from former defensive stalwarts who paved the way at Stamford Bridge, Caicedo highlighted the lasting impact of Brazilian veteran Thiago Silva.
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“You learn from the previous ones, like Thiago Silva, he was an example for us. He tried to help us in every moment. How he was a leader here was amazing for all of us,” he added.
“Now being one of the captains is a pleasure for me, and a special feeling for my family. Even if I’m not a player who likes to talk a lot, I like to show through what I do, so others can see my example.”
Currently sitting sixth in the Premier League table and eight points adrift of leaders Manchester City, Chelsea will look to channel that renewed leadership and momentum when they travel to face Everton on Saturday.
