WITTON boss Jim Vince has named Tom Spearritt as first team captain.

Vince believes the 23-year-old defender can handle the responsibility after an outstanding debut season last year, rewarding him with a new contract this week.

Spearritt is delighted at the news.

"It's come as a bit of a surprise but I'm really chuffed," he told the Guardian yesterday, Tuesday.

"But it won't change the way I play - I never shut up and I'll carry on doing the lads' heads in as normal."

Released by Wigan Athletic as a junior, Spearritt said he feels valued at Wincham Park since Vince took over from Gary Finley midway through the last campaign.

Spearritt said: "Jim really gave us a lift when he came in.

"He has a good rapport with the players and has earned our respect as a result."

Vince is in charge of his first pre-season with Albion, and Spearitt says there is a mood of optimism in the squad ahead of the forthcoming season.

He added: "The chairman and the manager have worked hard to give us the best possible chance of success.

"It seems that Burscough and Marine are shaping up to be the teams to beat, but I reckon we can compete with both of them."

Brian Pritchard will continue as club captain, with hard tackling midfielder Steve Connors named as vice skipper.

They will be joined by experienced defender Tony Barras, who signed for the club this week.

Barras, 35, has played more than 500 league matches in his career.

Vince said: "Tony brings a vast knowledge of the game to what essentially is still a very young squad.

"Spearritt and Pritchard will benefit from being kept on their toes, but it also gives me a chance to give them a break when they need it."

See next week's Guardian for Albion's fixture list.