The surprise Chelsea player who says he’s “taken on more of a senior role” this season

One current Chelsea player says that he has definitely taken on more of a senior role at the club this season, stepping up as a bit of a leader.

But no, I am not talking about a Ben Chilwell, Reece James, or a Conor Gallagher, who have all worn the captains armband this season and in fact, I’m not even talking about a player who ever plays for Chelsea!

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I am talking about goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli, who has made just one single senior appearance for Chelsea since joining the club in 2021. He is a firm backup choice stopper, and it seems like he is totally fine with that.

As reported on the Chelsea website this morning, there is an interview with a difference in the programme for Saturday’s game against Burnley, as Marcus Bettinelli gives an insight into his role in the dressing room.

It looks like the 31-year-old has become a bit of a dressing room leader and motivator!

‘I’m older than a lot of the lads, so I try and take that responsibility,’ he says, ‘and I feel like I’ve always been a good team player – that’s just something that I do. When the lads are coming in after a hard game – win, lose or draw – someone’s there to meet the lads and say “well done”.

‘This season, I think my role has changed slightly, as it’s quite a young squad and we’ve obviously had quite a lot of injuries and stuff. Azpi was PFA rep and I’ve stepped into that role this year.

‘I’ve definitely taken on more of a senior role with the outfield players as well in that sense and I’ve really enjoyed it. But I’ve always been there for the lads, win lose or draw, and I’ve always tried to keep morale up and keep the lads energised.’

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