Cahill vows to tackle Chelsea’s problems ‘head on’

Gary Cahill says he is desperate to help turn around Chelsea’s dismal start to the season.

The 29-year-old centre-back and his club team-mates have received widespread criticism as the Blues have won just two and lost four of their opening eight Premier League fixtures.

But Cahill, who has been named England skipper for Friday’s Euro 2016 qualifier against Estonia at Wembley, told a news conference on Thursday: “When things aren’t going well you want to front them up and challenge them head on.

“I have never been as determined to turn things around and I am sure my team-mates are the same.

“The Southampton game was very disappointing for me personally and I am very hungry to turn that around – as is everybody at the club. When I get back to club football we’ll head the problems front on.

“It has been a very, very tough start. It is something we want to address and not run away from.”

But Cahill said the chance to be able to captain his country was a “dream come true”.

He added: “It’s an extremely proud moment for me and for my family and one I am looking to enjoy as much as I can.

“It’s a great honour. Since the boss gave me the vice-captain role I have enjoyed that and have been waiting and hoping to lead the team out.

“I have had the armband once or twice when Wayne [Rooney] has been off the pitch, but to lead the team out will be incredible and definitely a career high.”