A week on from Lincoln United FC - Men's first pre-season training session and with their second session scheduled for tonight, first team manager, Sam Wilkinson, has named his captain and vice-captain for the coming season.

Wilkinson was named 'The Whites' permanent manager earlier this year, after coming back to the club on an interim basis prior to the Covid-19 basis. Since the season ended prematurely, Sam has assembled a young, energetic and competitive squad, full of local talent that want to play for Lincoln United Football Club. In many of the the player announcements, 'the gaffer' has outlined many of the above factors with many players but has also signalled that he would be looking at a few players within the squad to bring experience. As such, Wilkinson has named two players with that in abundance; Charlie Ward being named 'The Whites' first team captain, whilst Matt Cotton has been named Ward's deputy.

"As soon as I got the job I targeted Charlie to become captain and the conversation we had; I knew he was the right choice, he's always enjoyed playing for the club", Wilkinson stated. "He had the same views as me and the club on how things should be done and it was clear he wants to play his part in improving this young squad. He's always been a leader and is a role model to the younger player on how to apply yourself on and off the field, more importantly than anything else, I've already mentioned to the lads that he will do anything to win games of football and that's going to be a huge asset on our younger players".

Wilkinson continued, " Matt Cotton is slightly different to Charlie but will naturally be a very good role model and vice-captain. I've seen leadership skills in 'Cotts' a couple of years ago, especially with his application and performances on the pitch; he might not be your stereotyped leader but I believe giving him more responsibility will bring more out of him on the pitch and make him louder in the changing rooms. He sets the right example on the training ground and has always been one of our hardest working players, with his expected high standards, I know naturally he'll help support our young squad".

"I hope these two players will be at Lincoln United for many years to come. They are both top players, both leaders, albeit in slightly different ways, but most importantly, they both very genuine and decent people to have around your team".

The two newly assigned leaders had this to say on their appointments. "I'm delighted to be leading the boys out this season - it's a very proud moment for both myself and my family. I've got to thanks the gaffer and his management team for trusting me to show the new lads what it means to play for Lincoln United. The boys have shown positive signs early doors; the look fit, focused and hungry, so it's my role to ensure this is maintained throughout the season. We all can't wait to get started", Ward commented.

Cotton on the other hand, as Sam alluded is a different type of leader to Charlie, "I'm delighted to have been asked and am going to try and be more vocal in the dressing and on the field but ultimately, I'll continue to try and lead by giving my all and setting examples in my performances", said Cotton.

Lincoln United's commercial brochure is available to view below with many different sponsorship opportunities, including individual player sponsorship, of which Charlie and Matt are both still available. If you're interested in supporting 'The Whites' in any way, please take a look at the brochure and contact our Commercial Director at glen.merryweather@lincolnunitedfc.com