Cesar Azpilicueta Says He Speaks To Thiago Silva In French To Help Him Settle At Chelsea

 

Cheslea skipper Cesar Azpilicueta has taken it upon himself to help break down language barriers for new defensive colleague Thiago Silva.

The Brazil international is one of several new signings that arrived at the Bridge this summer who speak little or no English.

Silva had a Premier League debut to forget, as the experienced defender made a crucial error in Chelsea's 3-3 draw at West Brom last month.

Silva bounced back from that mishap by impressing in the Blues' 4-0 win over Crystal Palace, with each performance that passes seemingly enabling him to feel more at home in west London.

Now Spanish full-back Azpilicueta is doing all he can to ensure Silva's transition to life at Stamford Bridge, is as smooth as possible.

He told the Blues' official website: 'Yes it's true, we were communicating in French.

'I speak French, as does Thiago, and obviously Kurt [Zouma] does as well. It was a good way for us to talk at the back. Edu [Mendy] in goal speaks French too, so it was the best way for us.

'We try to help out as much as possible with the players that don't speak English at the moment and it is no problem for us. Thiago also speaks the same language as Jorginho, so he can communicate with him too.

'I think language is secondary though. Football is a universal game and for people like Thiago, he's been around the game for a long time and can lead others even without speaking the language so well.

'We want to make the adaptation as easy as possible for the new players and if we have to speak French in defence until the guys understand English, then that is fine.'

As well as looking out for his team mates, Azpilicueta has a battle on his hands with fellow right back and academy graduate Reece James.

The 20-year-old was recently called up to the England squad and has shown in glimpses this season that he can be one for the present and not just the future.

'The competition with Reece is very strong,' said Azpilicueta.

'As I have said before, this is Chelsea and you have to fight for your place in the team along with many other good players. This has been the same since I arrived here in 2012.

'Reece is a fantastic boy, he's a huge talent and he has lots of quality. I'm happy to try to help him and the team wherever I can.

'It's a huge challenge every day to work hard, prove yourself and fight for your place in the team. I want to play as much as possible, that is my target, but of course I want to help the team first and foremost.

'Of course, every player wants to play every single game but we have to respect the decision of the manager and just know that everyone in the squad will have their chance through the season. I didn't start the first few Premier League games, but I came on against West Brom and then played against Crystal Palace.

'When you get your chance, you have to take it and make it difficult for the manager to leave you out. I think having that strong competition that we have here is key and is what is needed for the club to improve and develop.'