Vladimir Petkovic has confirmed that despite the Albanian eagle controversy and retirement reports, Stephan Lichtsteiner remains Switzerland’s captain, and Granit Xhaka is his vice-captain.

Petkovic was speaking to the media on Tuesday, alongside Stephan Lichtsteiner, Granit Xhaka, Johan Djourou, Yann Sommer and Xherdan Shaqiri. At first the manager said that all five are his captains, with the obvious preference for Lichtsteiner, given he has already been the regular captain for a couple of years now.

When pressed on who would take up the role when Lichtsteiner was unavailable, Petkovic confirmed: “Granit Xhaka is the number two.”

Both Arsenal players apologised for their use of the Albanian eagle celebration over the summer, and insisted it wouldn’t happen again in the future. It seems the team intend to put the matter behind them now, and it won’t affect Petkovic’s choice of captains.

Just like we see all the time with Arsenal though, former Switzerland players are clinging on to the issue as a way to remain relevant and in the headlines. Kubilay Turkyilmaz told the media “Xhaka must never become captain” because of the celebration. Stephane Henchoz added “Xhaka does not represent Switzerland”.

Unfortunately for them, Xhaka will continue to represent Switzerland, and will become captain. They’ll just have to accept that.