January 21, 2013
NEW CAPTAIN
Carroll to wear the Union armband

By Charles Cuttone
Executive Editor

New Philadelphia Union captain Brian Carroll. Linda Cuttone/Sports Vue Images

CHESTER, Pa.--Brian Carroll has been named the new captain of the Philadelphia Union. Team Manager John -Hackworth notified the team on Monday of the selection of the 10 year MLS veteran.

Carroll takes over the captaincy from Carlos Valdez, who donned the armband last year after the departure of Danny Califf.

"Brian has certainly earned that opportunity through his actions, his character and the way he exemplified fantastic leadership last year in support of Carlos," said Hackworth.

The 33-year-old Carroll has been a steady presence in the Union midfield since joining the club from the Columbus Crew.

"Brian has a really good group of senior leadership around him. Guys like Chris Albright who were extremely influential in helping Carlos do the job last year, who will continue to do that," said Hackworth. "We also have some new guys who are experienced and who at different times in the careers have worn the armband, so I feel good about that."