Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson will wear the armband and lead England out on Tuesday night as the Three Lions face Slovenia in a World Cup qualifier. It appears to be his recent success in the role at club level that put him above the other candidates for the job.
Chelsea defender Gary Cahill has usually been given made captain during Wayne Rooney absences - dropped for this game - in the recent past, while Joe Hart and Chris Smalling have both worn the armband at various points in games as well.
Southgate says @JHenderson will captain the #ThreeLions against Slovenia tomorrow. https://t.co/9GBXEczyHq
Yet for caretaker boss Gareth Southgate, taking charge of his second of four games, the way that Henderson is managing to fill the shoes of Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard seems to have swayed his decision in favour of the Anfield star.
"What has stood out for me is that he has taken over as captain at a club where he has succeeded one of the most iconic English footballers of all time,"
https://twitter.com/England/status/785537177266651136
">Southgate said
"That would have been a difficult challenge for him and he's matured from that. He has shown great leadership skills with his club."
Henderson has taken his game to a new level so far this season after a questionable and injury plagued start to his new life as Liverpool captain made things difficult for him in 2015/16. But he's got that first year under his belt and is now beginning to live up to expectation as a result.
"He is used to being captain which is important. He has got a voice and an opinion within this group and he's got his clear ideas of what we need to work on," Southgate added.
Henderson also has the full backing of Rooney, who will remain the official captain for now.
"I think Jordan is a fantastic leader. He has taken a difficult job from Steven Gerrard and grown into the position," the Manchester United forward commented.
"He has great leadership qualities and he deserves his chance. It will be an incredibly proud moment for him and his family."
To continue the discussion on Twitter follow @jamiespencer155