Joe Newell named Hibernian club captain after signing new deal

Joe Newell has been named Hibernian club captain after signing a two-year contract extension.

The 31-year-old had a year left on his previous deal and has committed his future to the club until summer 2027.

The former Peterborough and Rotherham midfielder has scored 10 goals in 189 appearances for Hibs since joining in the summer of 2019 and won the club’s player of the year and players’ player of the year awards last season.

“Everyone who knows me knows how much Hibs means to me and I am grateful to be able to commit my future to here,” Newell said.

“To be named club captain is the biggest honour of my career so far. I was looking at the list of previous Hibs captains and to be added to that list of names and follow in the footsteps of some great players is an absolute privilege and truly means the world to me.”

Newell has already worn the armband on 29 occasions and now succeeds Paul Hanlon as club captain.

Head coach David Gray, whose side open their Premier Sports Cup campaign at Elgin on Saturday, added: “He is a great example to the young players at the football club, he is an excellent player and has maintained a high level of consistency with his performances over the years.

“It was an easy decision for me to name Joe as club captain. From playing alongside him to coaching him, I know what he is like as a competitor and a leader both on and off the pitch.

“He is a great personality to have around the dressing room, understands the club inside out and has a real connection with our supporters.

“I know he will embrace this new role and play a big part in driving the standards of this football club.”