Thompson confirmed as captain

Ian McParland has today confirmed that John Thompson, who ended last season as captain, will be wearing the armband for the Magpies this campaign. Experienced defender Thompson is a former Nottingham Forest and Oldham Athletic man, who has played a host of games at a higher level and impressed after joining from the Latic last season, despite finding himself shifted into midfield more often than not.

He was given the captaincy towards the end of the season after it was taken away from former skipper Mike Edwards, and he seemed to show more leadership and organisational qualities than his predecessor. Thompson is expected to be a key player this season, as he moves from central midfielder into his favoured position of centre back, probably to partner new signing Graeme Lee.