Why Ciro Immobile Should Be Lazio's Next Captain

To be appointed as the captain of a football team speaks highly about an individual. When deciding who to give the captain's armband to, the team must select someone who is a leader on and off the field, with experience and strong leadership qualities. Someone who is able to show a good work ethic, always determined to win, and who is able to bring the best out of his teammates.

For the past three years, Senad Lulić has worn the captain's armband for Lazio, assuming the role after former skipper Lucas Biglia joined Milan for €17 million. Lulić has enjoyed a successful nine-year spell for the Biancocelesti, scoring the winning goal in the 2013 Coppa Italia Final against crosstown rivals Roma and excelling at the left wing-back position for Simone Inzaghi's side. However, at 34 years of age, the Bosnia international has declined in his performances, and his contract expires at the end of the month. It begs the question: who should be Lazio's next captain?

Marco Parolo has often worn the armband when Lulić was either injured or suspended, but at 35 years old and with his contract expiring next year, he also isn't a long-term option for the role, and he has gone from a first-choice midfielder to a role player in recent years. To fill the vacancy, Inzaghi needn't look any further than his star striker Ciro Immobile.