Richard Naylor has been confirmed as Leeds United's club captain for the 2009/10 campaign.

Manager Simon Grayson announced on Friday that the central defender would be handed the armband for the new season.

The 32-year-old, who returned to his home town in January after spending 15 years at Ipswich Town, had previously skippered the side last term in the absence of Frazer Richardson.

Richard is currently sidelined with injury, following a back operation, and having missed out on pre-season he could yet miss the opening weeks of the new season.

But the boss is backing his leadership skills to come to the fore once again as he asks Richard to captain the club.

"The captaincy has been a pretty easy decision," said the boss. 

"Richard led by example last season. He isn't a loudmouth, he just gets on with his job.

"He tells them what he expects, and he leads by example on the pitch.

"It's disappointing that he's injured and missed pre-season, but when he comes back he will be fit and raring to go and he will show the leadership qualities he showed last year.

"Hopefully he will be back soon."

The boss says he hasn't firmed up who will captain the side in Naylor's absence, but Jonny Howson has worn the armband in pre-season and Patrick Kisnorbo is another who has impressed the manager with his leadership qualities. 

See the new captain's thoughts only on LUTV...