Neill: 'I Will Lead With Immense Pride'

Last updated : 27 July 2007 By Barney French
whufc.com revealed that the hard-working Aussie fullback - a popular choice for the armband amongst fans - will skipper the Hammers into a new era. It was believed new signing Scotty Parker could be in the running to take the helm, but Alan Curbishley has opted for the man who was so integral to West Ham's upturn at the end of last season. Curbs said:

"I'm pleased to confirm Lucas as the new team captain of West Ham United. He has all the qualities needed to captain a Club of this stature.

"He understands the role, has been used to it with Blackburn Rovers and Australia, and I'm sure it is an appointment that everybody at the Club is happy with."

Lucas Neill returned to pre-season training at Upton Park today and was delighted with the news:

"I'm absolutely overwhelmed and truly honoured to be named as captain of West Ham United.

"This is a Club with so much great history and so many great players who have led the team out - and to see my name up alongside those people is a fantastic feeling.

"It's an opportunity that I am going to relish. I will try to lead by example on and off the field and I promise all West Ham United supporters that I will lead their team out with immense pride."