YORK City Knights have new on-field skippers.

Two-time Press Player of the Year Jack Aldous, known as Mr Duracell for his ability to get through long stints in the engine room, has been named the new team captain, while new signing Mike Emmett has been named as vice-captain.

James Haynes, despite being ruled out of much of next season following his knee reconstruction, remains as club captain.

Head coach James Ford praised the trio's leadership qualities - and also insisted Pat Smith remained a key member of the leadership group despite relinquishing the armband.

"We've got a number of leaders - Ryan Mallinder, Austin Buchanan, Pat Smith and Ed Smith to name only a few - who will all contribute I am sure at some point and be involved in the decision-making," said Ford.

"As on-field captains who will lead by example, Jack Aldous and Mike Emmett have got an outstanding influence on people."

Of 24-year-old Aldous, who has racked up over a century of appearances for the club in only four years, missing only eight matches in that time, Ford said: "Jack's inspirational in his actions, but also when he speaks the boys listen.

"He doesn't waste his words - when he has something to say, he means it and the boys always buy into what he says and follow him.

"It's been pleasing to see Jack grow as a leader in his time at the club. When he first came as a youngster he was inspirational on the field but did not speak a lot. He's evolved into a leader and a good one at that, and everyone in the squad and coaching group respects him."

Emmett, 28, who arrived in the off-season from Doncaster, is seen as a good go-between from playing group to coaching staff.

Said Ford: "Mike also leads by example and is very vocal with his encouragement.

"He's also a good communicator with the coaching staff and gives feedback on what's working well and things we might have another look at."

Ford stressed local boy Pat Smith had not been stripped of the armband, but that his new work commitments meant a change was necessary.

"I wouldn't say Pat has 'lost' the captaincy role," he explained.

"He's still a predominant member of the leadership group. But he's away in Germany with work after getting a promotion, which means he's had to miss some of his preparation with us.

"I understand there's more to life than rugby league for part-time players and I was keen to support Pat with that. If anything, his promotion shows his leadership qualities.

"He's still very much in our plans but I needed some leaders, captains, through pre-season.

"But I wouldn't say he's 'lost' the position - his opinions, decision-making and organisational qualities will be important to us next season."

On Smith's absence from training, Ford added: "I'm disappointed but at the same time I'm delighted for Pat as he's developing personally and that's a good thing.

"When he comes back, it will be tough to get back up to speed but he's capable of doing that."