JON Aston will lead Stevenage out for the first time as captain on Saturday (August 3) in their League One opener against Oldham Athletic at the Lamex Stadium.

The 30-year-old, who took over the captaincy from Mark Roberts, told the Comet he is proud to don the armband.

“The manager offered me the captaincy in pre-season and I snapped his hand off. It is a privilege to be captain of such as great club and I’m very happy,” said Ashton.

Despite the extra responsibility, the central defender said he has embraced his new role, but he won’t let it interfere with his duty at the heart of Graham Westley’s defence.

“I have enjoyed the extra responsibility that comes with being captain, both on and off the pitch, but I’m not going to let it affect my game.

“With the likes of the new boys coming and having worked with Graham before, I have been able to put my arm round them and help them learn his ways which has brought them along.

“But the manager wants 11 captains out there; not just one saying everything.”

Looking ahead to Saturday, Ashton, who said he is fully fit and ready to go, admitted the side may not be at their best but ensured the fans they will give it their all.

He added: “It is always nice to win the first game, something Stevenage hasn’t done for a few years, so we’ll give it 100 per cent and we should get the job done.

“Regardless of whether we win, lose or draw we’ll take the positives, learn from the negatives and take it into the Ipswich game on Tuesday.”