New duo to lead Badgers

Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Eastwood Town have appointed Gavin Hurren and Carl Slater as their club and match captains.

The First Division South side's joint managers Chris Shaw and Nick Hawkins believe the duo will improve links between the playing staff and and officials as the Badgers seek to bounce back from relegation this season.

A club spokesman said: "To be a captain it takes more than the armband on a Saturday afternoon, it takes professionalism, punctuality and a winning mentality, these two have it in abundance.

"Individually they bring something very different to the squad however similar they are. Both are winners and have very high standards. Gavin and Carl are looked up to by all the squad and have the respect from Chris and Nick."

Hurren, the new club captain, said: "Having the opportunity to captain this Eastwood side would be one of my best achievements to date, right along with representing my country at Under-19 level to playing in the 2007 FA Trophy final at Wembley for Kidderminster Harriers.

"To lead out this group of players that Nick and Chris have built would be an emotional yet fantastic moment. I have played in some very good teams but the group of lads we have at the minute is up there with the best."