Ipswich’s George Pinner has been named as one of three captains for the Great Britain and England hockey sides.

With all-time leading cap holder Barry Middleton making the personal decision to step aside from captaincy after the best part of a decade at the helm, Pinner, Phil Roper and Ian Sloan were voted in by their fellow internationals.

It follows a decision by head coach Bobby Crutchley to name three captains in a bid to improve accountability and leadership across the sides.

The news comes the day after goalkeeper Pinner, 30, told the EADT and Star that he’d relish the opportunity to be captain, having twice led England on their recent tour of South Africa.

He said: “I have been captain at junior level, club level and at school and I think it brings the best out in me.

“It doesn’t change the way I am on the pitch but off it, it definitely sharpens you up in a few areas. If I get the chance to do it again, I am sure I will take it in my stride.”