Cesar Azpilicueta is hoping to be named as Chelsea’s permanent captain by head coach Maurizio Sarri this week.

Sarri confirmed last Friday that he has decided on his captain for the season, but is yet to tell the players or make it public because he has not discussed the decision with his Chelsea chiefs.

With last season’s captain Gary Cahill not starting games under Sarri, the Italian has been debating between Azpilicueta and Hazard for his on-pitch skipper.

There has been a feeling within the club that giving the armband to Hazard may help persuade him to sign a new contract, but it is understood the Belgian would not factor that into his decision making.

Azpilicueta has captained the team throughout their unbeaten Premier League start to the season, which puts him in pole position.