Blackburn Rovers boss Valerien Ismael has handed new club captain Todd Cantwell plaudits for how he has adapted to his new role.
The attacking midfielder took the armband this summer after the departure of Lewis Travis to join former Rovers boss John Eustace at Derby County. He has done an admirable job so far in leading the Ewood Park side, scoring three goals, before his most recent one in the abandoned game against Ipswich Town was rescinded pending a verdict.
Ismael Happy With Start
Speaking to the Lancashire Telegraph about how the former Norwich City starlet has handled his new responsibilities, Valerien Ismael complimented how Cantwell had begun.
“He is completely free, mentally very strong, so we are here to support him. He’s a great captain.
“I think that since we took the decision with him, it just confirms every week that he’s the right choice for the club, for the team and with the performance following on the pitch.
“We are very pleased to have him. I think regardless of what will be the outcome, I think that Todd Cantwell on that level will score a lot of goals this season if he can stay healthy.”
Since taking over, Cantwell has led his side to two wins and three losses in Championship action, in addition to a poor EFL Cup exit in the first round to Bradford City, albeit with the midfielder only making a half-hour cameo in that defeat.
Writers’ View
Todd Cantwell has had a good start to his captaincy at Blackburn Rovers even if the results haven’t been ideal. Nevertheless, Valerien Ismael seems pleased with his efforts so far, with the 27-year-old now transitioning into a leadership role as he enters his prime. Having your best players as captains sets an example and standard for other squad members to reach for. Cantwell is more than capable of dragging his team through games and doing so could see them reach a playoff position.
