Wayne Rooney has been named the new Manchester United Captain.
Louis Van Gaal announced the decision last night, ending speculation over who would replace Nemanja Vidic as skipper.
Robin Van Persie was thought to be favourite to take the armband, having led the Netherlands under van Gaal during the World Cup.
Rooney is delighted with his new role, saying "It is a huge honour and a role I will perform with great pride. I am very grateful to the manager for the faith he has shown in me."
Van Gaal says he has been impressed by the England international’s “professionalism and attitude to training” over the last few weeks.
"For me it's always very important the choice of captain," said Van Gaal.
"Wayne has shown a great attitude towards everything he does. "He is a great inspiration to the younger members of the team and I believe he will put his heart and soul into his captaincy role."
The Dutchman also named Darren Fletcher as club vice captain.
It comes after Van Gaal maintained his unbeaten start as United boss with a 2-1 victory over Valencia in their final pre-season friendly last night.
Marouane Fellaini struck in the last minute to give Van Gaal a win in his first game at Old Trafford as United boss.
Meanwhile, United are being heavily linked with a move for Sporting Lisbon's Marcos Rojo.
The versatile Argentine defender has handed-in a transfer request and told the club that he wants to move to Manchester.
