SHAUN PEARSON has been confirmed as Wrexham captain for the 2020/21 National League campaign.

The commanding central defender has had the armband since signing for the Reds in the summer of 2017, and Dean Keates had no hesitation in naming Pearson as skipper for a fourth successive season.

Not only is Pearson a big influence in the dressing room and on the pitch in the famous red shirt, but the 31-year-old also did plenty of work in the community during lockdown.

“He will be captain,” said Keates, whose side will kick-off the campaign on October 3 against Boreham Wood. “He was my signing in my first spell in charge and I knew what he would bring to the club.

“He’s done a lot of work in the community which is not just for the football club. He has showed the leadership skills of a captain and that is in his make-up.

“He is up there with one of my best ever signings.”

Fiacre Kelleher has arrived at The Racecourse this summer having captained Macclesfield, while the likes of Mark Carrington and Jay Harris are also no strangers to having the armband.

Keates wanted to recruit strong characters as part of his squad overhaul, and the Reds boss is pleased to have plenty of voices in the changing room as the club look to fight at the right end of the table this season.

“We were looking to get the right players in and we’ve done that,” said Keates. “Numerous players has worn the armband before and that’s a good thing.

“Whether you’ve got the armband or not you want strong characters in the dressing room.”

Midfielder Harris will be helping Tranmere Rovers Under-21s this season in the North West Development League - a role that Keates is happy for the 33-year-old to take on.

“We spoke about it at the weekend,” said Keates. “He was asked to step up to the Under-21s having done the Under-16s and it’s good for him.

“Jay can keep active and his mind on football and the tactical side of the game, which can be massive for the club on the pitch.

“He will see what it’s like being part of a coaching staff and, like Shaun, who has helped out in the community. I’m all for it.”