This, this, this. Absolutely bang on. I admit there wasn't many options but in hindsight it was a mistake to appoint ned as captain. Quiet as a mouse, and (some) of his displays are hardly going to inspire others.
Being old or experienced doesn't make you a leader either. Konchesky gets bullied most matches and perch offers very little in that department. We need someone to take the game by the scruff of the neck and show some responsibility for what's going on on the pitch. Ale tries but he can't do it alone. I literally can't think of a "leader" or someone who will stand up and be counted when the pressure is on in our entire squad.