Chelsea players 'baffled' by Mauricio Pochettino decision amid claims senior player has been 'disrespected'

Members of Chelsea's first-team squad are said to have been left feeling confused following Mauricio Pochettino's recent decision over the club's captaincy.

Claims have emerged that a senior member of the team feels 'disrespected', with current skipper Reece James once again facing an extended period on the sidelines through injury.

Midfielder Conor Gallagher and defender Levi Colwill have both sported the armband in recent weeks, with James and fellow England international Ben Chilwell - who remains vice-captain - both out of action at present.

The expectation was that Thiago Silva would be the likeliest contender to take on the responsibility of donning the captain's armband given his experience in a less-than experienced Chelsea dressing room this season.

The 39-year-old has now played over 650 games as a professional and is still under contract at Stamford Bridge until next summer.

Current skipper James was once again forced to be withdrawn at the weekend during his side's 2-0 defeat to Everton at Goodison Park.

The England defender has started just six games so far this season and concerns over his international prospects are only likely to grow heading into next summer's European Championships in Germany following his latest setback.

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According to a report from The Guardian, players believe there has been a lack of respect towards Silva in handing the armband to less senior members of the squad while the direction of the club has purportedly also been openly questioned inside the dressing room under the former Spurs boss, as Chelsea once again attempt to navigate through a difficult period.

Having won just one of their last five in all competitions, they face bottom-of-the-table Sheffield United at home this weekend, bidding for a response following their recent struggles.

It remains to be seen just who will captain the side, with James likely to be out until at least February.