A good captain is worth his weight in gold.
He can inspire, motivate and lead by example on the pitch.
Maradona lifted those around him when he played for club and country as did Adams at Arsenal, Baresi at Milan, Souness with us and Beckenbaur with Germany.
Roy Keane's performance for united away to Juventus where they recovered from being 2-0 down to win 3-2 is one of the most inspirational captains performances of all time.
Gerrard's performance in the second half and during extra time in Istanbul was also a perfect example of how a captain can lead, inspire and motivate those around them.
I agree, a good captain is a great asset, but you have just named 6 of the greatest plyers of all time in their position and leaders, these players are few and far between now.
Football has changed now, look at the latest rumours with Sanchez & Ozil wanting to know that Wenger is staying before they sign a new deal, 20 years ago that would never have happened, it was sign or we sell ya, players have the power now, the like's of Tony Adams/Ian Wright would not have tolerated that.
We used to have teams with 3 or 4 captains in them, like Whelan/Wright/McMahon/Barnes etc, but all the team is responsible, it should not be down to 1 player to grab them by the scruff of the neck, unfortunately players do not have that same attitude now.