Thursday, 16th January, 2014
Ross McCormack has expressed his delight at being named captain of Leeds United, hailing manager Brian McDermott's announcement as "a proud day".
McDermott has taken the captaincy off midfielder Rudy Austin and handed it to McCormack, who is current top scorer in the Championship.
mobile ad
And that has thrilled the Scotland international, who wrote on his Twitter account: "Absolutely delighted to be the captain of Leeds United.
"Really looking forward to it. A proud day for myself and my family. MOT."
relatedNewsStory
While the armband is recognition of McCormack's superb form for Leeds this season, McDermott was at pains to make clear that it is not a reflection on Austin, who he feels will simply cope better without the captaincy.
"The situation is that I had a good conversation with Rudy Austin", the former Reading manager told his club's site.
"He is a great guy and we had a good discussion. I want Rudy to play his game. He feels his personality isn’t conducive to that role.
"You can see his leadership qualities in the way he plays and tracks back. Leeds United means so much to him.
"I just want to take that pressure away and I want him to play the way he wants with freedom."
McCormack will captain Leeds against Leicester City at Elland Road on Saturday.
Don't bet on football until you've visited Inside Bet! Interesting markets, top tips, betting facts – get all the info before you bet.
