Grant McCann confirms key Peterborough United decision

Peterborough United manager Grant McCann has revealed his new captain and vice captain as Posh gear up for their return to League One.

Jonson Clarke-Harris has been named as Peterborough’s new captain for the 2022/23 campaign, despite constant speculation surrounding his future.

Via the club’s official website, McCann explained his decision to name Clarke-Harris as skipper: “When Cliff, Dale and I joined the club, we felt that Jonson would be a good leader and he just needs to carry on from last season, continue to lead by example and apply himself as he has done on and off the pitch.”

JCH struggled to adapt to the Championship last year, with Darren Ferguson ultimately unable to get the best out of his main man. Just five goals in 30 matches by the time McCann arrived saw Clarke-Harris benched in the new gaffer’s first game, a 3-0 defeat at McCann’s previous side Hull City. However, Clarke-Harris then went on to play in every remaining game, scoring an impressive seven in 13 despite Posh’s relegation.

That impressive form coupled with leadership qualities that were clearly noticed by McCann led to him taking the armband temporarily on two occasions, before being handed it permanently for the upcoming season.

Nathan Thompson, one of last year’s captains, has been confirmed as vice-captain for the campaign. Thompson is yet to play for McCann as a result of a calf injury he sustained in February. The right-sided defender appeared 39 times for Posh in their 20/21 promotion season, and will be hoping to replicate that success with Peterborough.

The Verdict

Jonson Clarke-Harris has been linked to Championship sides Sunderland and Watford in recent weeks, with Watford considered the more likely destination. This could well be