Howard deserves this says boss Kearney

“He just is a natural leader and there are so many sides to him,” said Kearney. “He has always been moulded for this role and he has evolved into this position.

“There are so many reasons why Howard deserves this.”

The Bannsiders boss said David Ogilby was disappointed to lose the armband but recognised Howard’s development.

“I made the decision to appoint Howard as the new captain before the Moyola game,” he revealed.

“When I spoke with David about it I told him the decision has 10% to do with his actions as he has been a great captain for us, but it’s 90% to do with how Howard has evolved over that time and the type of person he has become.

“David was understandably disappointed but he said he fully understood as he knows the progress Howard has been in the last two years.

“Howard is a local lad and a great role model for everyone.”