Kljestan succeeds McCarty as Red Bulls captain

Sacha Kljestan has been handed the captain’s armband at the New York Red Bulls.

The 31-year-old United States international has been at the Red Bull Arena since shifting from Anderlecht in 2015, and takes the role as skipper from Dax McCarty following his controversial trade to the Chicago Fire earlier this month.

“It’s definitely an honor to be named captain of this club,” Kljestan said. “I am excited about the chance to lead the group.”

Kljestan played 31 league games and tallied a franchise-record 20 assists in the 2016 campaign. He was rewarded with selection as an MLS All-Star and in the MLS Best XI and was a finalist for the MVP award, which ultimately went to David Villa.

The midfielder added: “I think the most important thing is that I’m going to represent my teammates, the coaching staff, the entire club, and the supporters in the best way possible.”

Manager Jesse Marsch says he expects his new captain’s leadership “to grow immensely” with the fresh responsibility.

The Red Bulls are currently undergoing preparations for the new season before a CONCACAF Champions League quarterfinal first-leg visit from the Vancouver Whitecaps on Feb. 22.