The England defender took the mantle from long-term Blues leader John Terry.

Terry left Stamford Bridge last summer and Cahill stepped up from vice-captain to captain.

He's been out of action for a while but is back and raring to go.

And even from the sidelines he's been trying to influence his team-mates.

“When I’ve been out [injured], I try to have an influence in the changing room.

“It was a great honour to be captain last year.

"I know the responsibility that comes with it, but the way I prepare for games does not change whether I have the armband or not.

"I play the same way. I want to win.

“If you’re out of the team and they do well, I’m part of the squad.

"They’ve done well in the last few weeks. I’m available now.

"It’s about the team and the team doing well.

“It was a disappointing first game for me. But that’s in the past.

"I’m itching to play and looking forward to being back involved.”

Cahill is set to return for Chelsea in their Champions League clash with Qarabag tonight.