Unfortunately for some of the club captains in the Premier League, their opportunities to be that influential figure in the heat of battle has become increasingly limited.
Age has caught up with some of the best leaders in English football’s top tier and their careers at their respective clubs may be coming to an end as they look for more playing time elsewhere.
Here’s a look at some of the top Premier League captains who may be making a switch at the end of the season.
JOHN TERRY – CHELSEA
Tony Pulis has made no secret of his desire to bring the former England skipper to West Brom while there are suggestions of a move to Arsenal as well (hey, if Petr Cech can make the switch….).
Seasons at the Club: 19
Appearances: 713
Trophies Won: 16
Appearances This Season: 10
Linked With: West Brom, Chinese Super League, Arsenal, Stoke City, Bournemouth
Wayne Rooney is Manchester United’s all-time record goal-scorer but he’s hardly an integral member of the squad anymore.
Despite Jose Mourinho’s compliments, it’s hard to see the Englishman earning a regular spot in the team going forward. A return to Everton has long since been on the cards especially since Ronald Koeman stated last month that he believes Rooney would make the Toffees stronger.
Seasons at the Club: 13
Appearances: 550
Trophies Won: 15
Appearances This Season: 32
Linked With: Everton, Chinese Super League
- VINCENT KOMPANY – MANCHESTER CITY
The Belgian has been a massive figure during the new era at the club, leading them to league titles. However, a series of injuries has seen him confined to the sidelines, putting his future at City in jeopardy.
Seasons at the Club: 9
Appearances: 303
Trophies Won: 6
Appearances This Season: 6
Linked With: Besiktas, Galatasaray
- PER MERTESACKER – ARSENAL
Since the arrivals of Shkodran Mustafi and Gabriel, Per Mertesacker has fallen down the pecking order at Arsenal. His injury concerns haven’t helped his cause either.
The towering defender has only gotten slower with age and finds it increasingly difficult to handle the pace of the Premier League. A move back to Germany in his most likely route this summer.
Seasons at the Club: 6
Appearances: 207
Trophies Won: 3
Appearances This Season: 0
Linked With: Hannover, Werder Bremen
- PHIL JAGIELKA – EVERTON
Phil Jagielka has been a defensive stalwart for Everton for a decade but that appears to be changing under Ronald Koeman this season.
The 34-year-old has found himself playing second fiddle to Ashley Williams and Funes Mori of late. He’s been heavily linked to a move to Sunderland where he would reunite with former manager David Moyes.
Seasons at the Club: 10
Appearances: 339
Trophies Won: 0
Appearances This Season: 17
Linked With: Sunderland
