Few players in Chelsea's entire history are better placed to speak on the issue of captaincy than John Terry.
The club's greatest ever skipper, becoming the first player in Premier League history to lead his team to five titles, along with a Champions League and multiple other honours. Terry's leadership optimised an iconic group of Chelsea players.
After emotionally departing in 2017, Gary Cahill and Cesar Azpilicueta have succeeded him in the role, both going on to lift more silverware in blue. But as the future of Azpilicueta remains unresolved amid Barcelona's pursuit of several Chelsea defenders, Terry provided an answer.
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Speaking with former Chelsea TV presenter and journalist Allison Bender in an exclusive interview, the Blues icon was asked who he thought should follow the respected Spaniard should this be his final season.
"I think the progression from that would probably lead itself to Mason for me," Terry told StadiumAstro.
"I think Mason has got the ability to go on, and I think he's capable of grabbing the game by the scruff of the neck if we need to.
"The Chelsea fans relate to him. He is Chelsea through and through. His family are as well. I would personally love to see Mason take it."
Mason Mount, still only 23, has already worn the armband twice for Chelsea in the FA Cup last year. The homegrown star has become an undroppable presence since returning from a successful loan with Derby County in 2019 under Frank Lampard.
Voted as Chelsea's young player of the season in his first season and then capturing the senior prize in 2020/21, the English midfielder's meteoric rise has made him an inspirational figure for supporters to cling onto.
Another academy star in Reece James, could also be given the armband in the future, having a similar path to Mount, quickly becoming one of the club's most valuable players. Despite Mount offering a more vocal presence, James' sublime technique and precision offer a strong alternative.
There is also the wisdom and legendary influence of Thiago Silva. Another beloved player who could win the player of the season award next month. Contracted for at least another season, the Brazillian's organisational skills and performance levels make him a fine choice.
Azpilicueta has been targeted by Barcelona for many months as his contract has ticked down. Recently it has been revealed that due to the number of appearances made by the 32-year-old this season, a clause in his contract has been triggered to keep him at the club for a further season.
However, this does not entirely guarantee he will remain a Chelsea player beyond the summer, as the club could still accept a fee for him should he opt to depart.
Terry heaped praise onto his successor Azpilicueta and his longevity at the club, pointing out the different types of personalities who can thrive as captain.
"He [Azpilicueta] has been superb, and as you said, there are many ways to skin a cat. He does it differently. His performances, first and foremost, have to speak for themselves, and they certainly do that.
"When your captain, it's important that you are a consistent performer, week in and week out. You give a solid seven or eight out of 10 every week. He does that for the group."
Following the legendary career of Terry was always going to be an uphill task, one that Azpilicueta has taken on with confidence and pride, leading him to become a legend in his own right, lifting the Champions League last May.
Whoever follows Azpilicueta will have the task of replicating his longevity, consistent levels of performance and spirit to maintain the high levels of success Chelsea have become used to.
That role may even take on more importance as Chelsea prepares to enter life under a new owner following the imminent sale from Roman Abramovich.
