Andy Frampton (left) and Matt Lawrence will lead the Gills this season

by Luke Cawdell

Andy Frampton has been confirmed as the new team captain at Gillingham.

The experienced defender, who joined the Gills this summer after ending four years at Millwall, will be assisted by Matt Lawrence.

Lawrence picked up the player-of-the-year runners-up award last season and was an influential figure during his first season. He takes the title of club captain.

The decision to replace Barry Fuller as captain was made by manager Andy Hessenthaler, who feels the decision will benefit everybody.

Hessenthaler said: "I had a good conversation with Barry and he has been first class since I have been at this football club. I really want him to concentrate on his game and not have the responsibility of anything else. I think he will benefit from that.

"Barry was disappointed because he wore the armband with honour and loved doing it for the football club but I’ve just made a decision this season and he has taken it spot on. He will lead by example on the pitch in his performances anyway.

"Frampton is an organiser on the pitch and he doesn’t mess around in the changing rooms. He will tell the players how it is and tell the players if they are not doing it.

"The dressing room is looking good and they are all chomping at the bit for the start of the season."

Lawrence, who is likely to partner Frampton in the centre of defence this season, has taken over the club captaincy.

"Matt will do stuff off the pitch and will be the PFA representative for the players," said Hessenthaler.

"He will organise functions for the players and the get-togethers and night-outs for the team bonding we need off the field. He will be very good at that."

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