Marcus Fraser Takes Over as St Mirren Captain
St Mirren manager Craig McLeish has highlighted Marcus Fraser's exemplary standards around the club as the key reason for appointing him the new captain of the Buddies.
The 32-year-old defender succeeds Mark O'Hara, who has left Paisley to return to Kilmarnock, the club where he began his senior career.
Alex Gogic has been named vice-captain, and McLeish expressed his satisfaction with the leadership duo guiding the squad.
"When you're in the building, you see how Marcus runs the changing room and sets standards, day in, day out, on and off the training pitch," said McLeish.
"Gogic is similar. Even beyond that, we've got an experienced group of players with Declan John, with Jonah Ayunga, Keanu Baccus and Liam Donnelly.
"We've got a really good core of experienced players that I can lean on at times. But having Marcus lead the group on and off the pitch, I'm delighted with that."
Fraser's Background and Role
Marcus Fraser progressed through Celtic's youth system before spending five years at Ross County. He joined St Mirren in 2020.
Last season, Fraser scored a vital goal in the Scottish Premiership play-off final against Partick Thistle, securing the Buddies' top-flight status. He expressed enthusiasm about taking on the captaincy.
"I had a chat during the week with the manager and the coaching staff and they asked me if I'd like to take the role on - and of course, I jumped at the chance," Fraser said.
"I thanked them and I appreciate it. Since they've been in from the end of the season to now, they've really backed me and shown faith in me, so I'm just happy and hopefully I can reward them with performances on the pitch and gelling all the new guys together as well.
"Since the start of pre-season the manager's asked me a few questions here and there about different things to ask my opinion about stuff. That's been good from the players' point of view and it's good to get that connection with the manager and coaching staff early."
McLeish Reflects on O'Hara's Departure
McLeish also acknowledged the significant contribution of former captain Mark O'Hara.
"He was such a big part in me sitting in this seat right now, so from a personal point of view it was a tough one," McLeish said regarding O'Hara's exit.
"I've got a really good relationship with Mark and he was a big player for us. He felt that it was probably time for a fresh start and I totally understand that. We thank him for his contribution here and wish him all the best."
Additional Information
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