Town boss Joe Royle has confirmed Jim Magilton as skipper for a second season. The Northern Irishman took the armband from Matt Holland last summer.

Royle told the club site: "Jim will skipper the team because he is the best player qualified to do so.

"He is an inspirational leader and a great motivator and that is the sort of player we need as our captain.

"He was one of our best performers last season and a very important part of the team.

"It also shows the quality of Jim that even when he is having an off-day, he never hides on the pitch. He always shows that same 100 per cent commitment and is forever looking to receive the ball. That's a sign of a good player - and a captain."

Magilton signed a new one-year deal with the club earlier today.

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