Frampton made 23 appearances on loan at Swindon last season

Gillingham manager Andy Hessenthaler has confirmed new arrival Andy Frampton will captain the club this season.

Defender Barry Fuller has been the team's skipper since Andrew Crofts was relieved of the duty in October 2008.

But Frampton, 31, impressed the Gills boss when he was given the armband in friendlies against Millwall on Saturday and Leyton Orient on Tuesday.

Hessenthaler said: "I felt it was the right time. Barry acknowledges that, and he's been first class."

He added: "I sat down with him and said that I'd decided to change the captaincy.

Barry took it in the right way and he's been showing in his performances in pre-season that he's still a leader on the pitch Andy Hessenthaler

"He was obviously disappointed because he wore the armband with honour and loved being captain.

"He had a tough year last year - on and off the field. I really want Barry to concentrate on his game and not worry about anything else.

"With Andy Frampton, you can tell straight away that he's come in and stamped that authority on the club and the team - that captain's role really.

"Framps is a different type of captain. He's perhaps a little bit more vocal than Baz and he's experienced at doing it.

"Barry took it in the right way and he's been showing in his performances in pre-season that he's still a leader on the pitch."

Speculation that Hessenthaler may opt for Frampton as captain have been circulating since the experienced defender arrived at Priestfield earlier this month.

Speaking at the club's first press conference of the season, Frampton told BBC Radio Kent: "The captaincy is a fantastic accolade to be given.

"If it does happen, then fantastic, I'll grab it with both hands. I like to lead anyway, so I'll get on with it.

"Hopefully I'll bring a bit of experience and a voice, and in certain situations through the season I'll be able to use some of that experience I've gained through my career."

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