Chelsea FC’s promising youngster Lewis Baker has had a day full of good news. First he was named to the Chelsea senior squad and now he has been named the captain of the England U20 side for their match on Friday against Romania. The midfielder had a phenomenal season last year and is well on his way to becoming a first team regular.



Lewis Baker did an interview with TheFA.com after he was named captain and here are some of the best bits:

On receiving the call from the manager:

The manager told me a little bit earlier today. It’s a great achievement and it’s something I’m very proud to do. When I lead my country out it will be an amazing feeling. Although I’ve worn the armband before, it was after the starting captain was substituted so it will be the first time I have ever done that with an England team. It will be an amazing feeling and something I am very excited about.”

On working with England U20 national team coach Aidy Boothroyd:

“I worked with Aidy last season with the U19s and he’s a great coach, great person, and his training sessions have been really enjoyable. He wants us to play good football and he has faith in us that we can play – and we’re determined to go out there and get the win for him.”

Lewis Baker on being called up to the first team and Jose Mourinho’s comments that he will one day for the England national team:

“It’s a huge compliment, but it’s not just down to him. It’s down to me and how hard I work – the effort I put in, and my performances on the pitch. I have to make sure I grasp the opportunities as and when they are given to me. If I work hard I’m confident my opportunities will come. I just want to carry on playing my football, enjoying my football and doing what I know I can do.

Baker on what his goals are as captain with the England U20 team:

“Being captain is one thing but when I go out onto the pitch I have to perform. I have to continue to give 110 per cent in every game and lead by example. We’ve been working hard all week with Aidy and his team so it’s important we all focus on performing to the best of our ability against Romania. There’s some great talent in this group and we’re all very much looking forward to the game.”

Congratulations and best of luck to you Lewis! Hopefully this is the first of many captaincies that you are given in your career!

Source: TheFA.com

Follow us on Twitter at @PrideOLondon

Like us on Facebook at The Pride of London