Grimsby Town Football Club are delighted to announce goalkeeper James McKeown as captain ahead of the 2019-20 season.

The 30-year-old is now entering his ninth season at Blundell Park, and has made more than 400 appearances for the Mariners since his arrival in 2011.

McKeown has become a vital figure in the club in recent seasons, and helped Town gain promotion back to the EFL via the National League play-offs in 2016.

He’s continued to take his excellent performances to the next level season on season, culminating in him winning the Player of the Year award for a second successive campaign last term.

And manager Michael Jolley has recognised McKeown’s importance for the Mariners, both on and off the field, by making him captain ahead of the Sky Bet League Two 2019-20 season.

Speaking exclusively to gtfc.co.uk, McKeown said: “I’m absolutely honoured to be chosen as captain of this football club – it was one of the best moments of my career when the gaffer told me.

“I’m very grateful to him and the staff who have the faith in me to do the job, especially given the club’s previous captains.

“I see it as being more important than just in the 90 minutes of a game.

“We have a team with plenty of leaders who can, and will, all lead in different ways which every good group of players needs.

“A big part of the job for me is to represent the club off the pitch – in the town as a whole, help the lads out with any problems, welcome new players, and be there for young players making their way in the game.

“I just want to help drive and set the standard in training that the gaffer demands every day.”

We are also pleased to announce that defender Luke Hendrie will be our vice-captain ahead of the upcoming campaign.

Hendrie said: “It’s a really proud moment for me, and it shows that the manager has a lot of trust in me.

“I’m really pleased. I want to keep my standards high and help the people around me as well – I want to try and win once I cross that white line.”

And Town boss Jolley praised the pair, after appointing them with their new roles ahead of the 2019-20 season.

He said: “I’m delighted to confirm James McKeown as our new club captain and Luke Hendrie as our vice-captain.

“Macca is hugely respected by our players, supporters and staff, and will wear the armband with the pride and respect that it deserves.

“Luke has become a key figure within the group and shows leadership qualities beyond his years.

“I am sure the two of them will be a huge help to me and the team in their new roles as we all aim for a successful season in 2019-20.”

The Mariners get their Sky Bet League Two 2019-20 season underway at Morecambe this Saturday (3pm), with new skipper James McKeown.