JAMES HAYNES is staying at York City Knights' and will be the new team captain, head coach James Ford has announced.

Full-back Haynes, who rediscovered his best form last season after two years combatting a career-threatening back problem, will take the armband off Hunslet-bound Jack Lee and share captaincy roles with Pat Smith, who has already been named club skipper.

Aside his enforced absences, including a spell back in the amateur arena last year to regain fitness and confidence, the Hull-based 25-year-old is now the Knights' second longest-serving player behind Ed Smith, having first joined York in 2010.

Ford said: "I'm delighted James is staying. He's also an ideal candidate as captain - he's articulate, he understands the game and how to communicate, and he's always a positive influence in training.

"On the field, he's tough, very safe at the back and very skilful. He can be an outstanding player and leader for us."