Defender Stuart Whitehead is the man who will be charged with captaining AFC Telford United to promotion from the Blue Square North next season.

The experienced 31-year-old takes over as skipper from fellow centre-back Jimmy Turner, who had the job for much of the season just finished, following injury to Steve Jagielka.

Turner impressed in the role as he led the Bucks to second place but ultimate disappointment in the play-offs – earning his reward in the form of a one-year contract to stay at the club.

But it is former Darlington, Shrewsbury and Kidderminster man Whitehead to whom boss Rob Smith will hand the armband.

“You look around your team and he stands out as captain material,” said Smith. “I like having a centre-half as captain because they can see the whole game.

“He’s got the total respect of all the boys and he’s a good choice to do the job in the season ahead – I just hope we can get him on the pitch as often as possible.

“He had a bad injury but it’s not something that’s troubled him throughout his career, and he now has the chance to get a good pre-season under his belt.

“Hopefully he’ll be flying for the start and we can get the best out of him.”

Smith was quick to insist his decision should not be seen as a snub or a demotion for Turner, who remains a central figure in his plans.

“Jimmy knows Stuart is going to be captain – he probably thinks it’s a good idea as well,” Smith added.

“Jimmy has been an outstanding captain but Stuart has that extra experience.”

Meanwhile, Smith revealed he was still keeping tabs on Burscough defender Dave Roberts, who spent the last 10 weeks of the season on loan at Telford.

The Bucks have already agreed personal terms with the player, but the stumbling block has been negotiating a fee with the Linnets.

By Chris Hudson