Gillingham manager Steve Evans has explained why he’s picked Kyle Dempsey to be the club’s new skipper.

Dempsey has joined the Gills this summer after four years with Fleetwood Town.

Evans needed a new captain following Max Ehmer’s decision to quit for Bristol Rovers - who have now also signed Brandon Hanlan - narrowing it down to a choice between Dempsey and fellow midfielder Stuart O’Keefe.

Evans said: “It was a tough call to make as there were several players I could have handed this responsibility to.

“Kyle, Stuart O’Keefe, Connor Ogilvie and Jacob Mellis could all have done the job and they will be leaders themselves on the pitch but I was keen to have a young captain who would bring something new to the role and he was delighted to accept.

“It’s a young group and a fresh group and we wanted someone young and fresh and new that could bring new things to the party.”

The Gills have confirmed that O’Keefe will act as vice captain.

“In many ways it doesn’t matter who has the armband,” Evans said.

“Stuart has been fantastic and he is a skipper in his own right. I probably communicate more with Stuart than anyone in the group. I really see both of them as captains although one has got the nod.

“Every single player on the pitch has a responsibility to lead by example, communicate effectively with their team-mates and act as a role model both on and off the pitch. However, I am confident Kyle will take naturally to the position and I know he will hold the role with immense pride.”

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