Andre’s keen to lead from front with the armband

Boucaud takes over the role in his second season at the club, having been led last year by former midfield partner Abu Ogogo.

Manager Wayne Burnett has placed his faith in the Trinidad & Tobago international to lead the team on the pitch and Boucaud says he feels priviliged to have been handed the role.

“It’s an honour to lead out the boys and I’m grateful the gaffer and the coaching staff gave me that opportunity and I’m going to do my best,” he said.

“There’s nothing more I can really do. It’s an armband, but at the end of the day, you have to lead by example and that’s what I’m going to do.”

Boucaud has missed much of Daggers’ pre-season schedule, instead representing the Soca Warriors at the Gold Cup.

During that time, the armband was passed around several of the players, with Ashley Chambers and Joe Widdowson captaining the side on several occassions.

So Boucaud freely admits he was taken aback when Burnett asked him to take over the role for the new season.

He added: “It was a bit of a surprise. He asked me who I reckon should be captain and what do I think about it?

“I told him if you want me to be captain, I’d take it. I’m privileged, but I’m very excited.”

While Boucaud may be eagerly anticipating the role, many pundits often state it can put a player under pressure to perform.

But the 30-year-old remains confident he can turn in performances of the highest calibre for the east Londoners once again this season, insisting it will not detract from his focus.

“I’m captain, but I’m still trying to do my best. I’m not doing much different. When I play, even when I’m not captain, I try to lead the boys and that’s what I’ll continue to do,” he said.

And as for the team, Boucaud says they are raring to go ahead of the opening match, adding: “The boys are ready. Everyone can’t wait for the season to start. It might be a bit erratic and a bit wild because everyone’s a bit nervous in the first game.”