Toronto FC names Michael Bradley captain, replacing Steven Caldwell

Steven Caldwell is out. Michael Bradley is in.

Toronto FC confirmed Tuesday night that the American midfielder, already considered the leader of the club during his inaugural season in 2014, has officially been given the armband ahead of the new campaign.

Bradley, 27, is the seventh captain in club history.

"I’m extremely proud and excited,” he said of the decision, which has long seemed inevitable.

"I think it’s important to first talk about Steven Caldwell and the respect and admiration we have for each other. From the first day I got here he’s somebody that’s played a huge role for me, both on and off the field."

The 34-year-old Scot, who only last month outlined his desire to retain the armband this season, will still be relied upon to provide leadership for a young side - particularly in defence, where he will once again be the senior member of the group.

"For me, Steven has been a great captain, a great person and obviously an important piece to our team," head coach Greg Vanney said.

“Making this decision was not easy and not one I take lightly, but for where we are and where we are going it’s time for Michael to take on this role. “

Vanney continued:

"We’re building this team to win not just for one year, as you’ve seen with Sebastian (Giovinco), who is 28, and Jozy (Altidore), who is 25. This is a long-term project for success, so for us it was also choosing Michael for the next several years to take on that responsibility."