Neill Byrne up for the AFC Telford captaincy

But the 21-year-old defender's first priority ahead of the new campaign will be simply retaining his place in the side.

Manager Steve Kittrick highlighted Byrne as potential captain material towards the end of last season and he is being considered for the armband in 2015-16.

But the Bucks boss is also expected to bring in several new recruits during the close season as he aims to re-shape his squad for a promotion push in the Conference North.

And Byrne said: "It's obviously good for the gaffer to say that. I was happy to hear it, but I think we just need to wait and see what happens.

"If Ian Sharps stays on he's the captain, so I don't see why he wouldn't be next year as well. I will focus more on getting fit and see what happens.

"It would be a proud moment to be captain but in pre-season anything can happen, and your first aim is to make sure you are fit, playing well and in the team."

Kittrick, who joined the Bucks in December, has been impressed with Byrne's form in the second half of the season.

That improvement has coincided with a run in the centre of defence alongside the experienced Ian Sharps, who arrived on loan from Burton Albion in February.

Byrne believes Sharps' arrival helped him hit form but was also keen to praise Kittrick.

The centre-back said: "Sharps has played a part in that, but a lot of it is down to the gaffer as well

"The lads have started playing a little bit better and I think he brought a bit of confidence to the team.

"He gave me a lot more confidence and when Sharps came in he brought that bit more experience at the back, and he's been brilliant.

"I think I did have a better second half of the season. When you are playing well and you have confidence you just seem to keep playing well.

"I think that is partially down to the team, the manager and Sharps."