Download the Real Chelsea Fans app for all the latest Chelsea news

Mauricio Pochettino has hailed the character and talent of Levi Colwill ahead of Chelsea’s trip to Everton this Sunday.

Colwill has been a key player under the Argentine this season, playing 17 times so far across all competitions.

The 20-year-old, who has played both as a centre back and left-back, was handed the captain’s armband in the 2-1 defeat against Manchester United in midweek, much to the surprise of many, but Pochettino has now said he has total faith in the England international.

Asked if he felt any sort of pressure about making Colwill captain for the United game, Pochettino said, as quoted by The Athletic: “No. It is (only seen as) a pressure for (people) who don’t know Levi. Levi can deal with it because of his personality and character.

“He loves the club, he came from the club (the academy) and in 4-5 months (with the first team) everyone respects him. He has the profile to be captain.

“We are building something for today but for the future also. He is a potentially massive player for the future of the club.

“My decision is about giving responsibility and a chance to learn. For him it is a massive test, to be responsible for the team. If we want young kids to become men and become great players, we need to trust them. I trust him because of his personality and character.

“Even if he doesn’t get the armband again this season because we have Reece, Ben Chilwell and Conor Gallagher, he has the profile. From what I can see, he is going to be the future of the club.”