Thomas is new captain

Thomas, who missed much of last season with a series of injuries, said of the news: “It really is a massive honour and a massive responsibility, but hopefully that does not detract from the job, which is getting results with the rest of the team every week. Frank is a tough act to follow, but hopefully I can learn from him because, being the man he is, I am sure he will be forthcoming with any advice I need.

"It's my intention now to keep the armband for as long as possible, but as I take on the job I would like to think there will be eleven captains out there on the field and that everyone is talking together and giving out rockets where they are needed. It shouldn't be solely my responsibility, but if it is left to me then I am ready and willing.

"It's about leading by example, showing a bit of pride and passion and not rolling over if you are having a bad day at the office. I have a pride and passion in this club and I have a desire to win games. But I also aim to be respectful off the pitch to opposition teams, to supporters and ordinary members of the public and generally show the club in the best light as possible."

Steve Cotterill added: “This year I have made a change with the captaincy and given it to Wayne Thomas. I think there is more to come out of Wayne and in giving him the armband I hope it will bring more out of him. He will be a big player for us anyway, but with the armband he has to be responsible and mature and if I think if he can get both of those into his game he could go on to be a very, very good player.

"I just think they are the things that are missing, from time to time, in his game and if he is responsible and mature he can grow into being a top player. It's funny because this time last year he would have had high expectations at a new club. Just a few games in he got sent off and then suffered a cruciate injury in the next game.

"He came back and then breaks his metatarsal, so we are looking for a big year, not just from Wayne but the ten others around him at any God given time. But I am pleased to give him the opportunity to be captain and I just hope he grasps it with both hands."

In taking over as captain it brings to an end Frank Sinclair's time with the armband which was for a season and a half. He replaced Robbie Blake in January 2005 when Blake was sold to Birmingham. He remains very much part of the first team squad and will be there to offer his support to the new captain on Saturday.