NEW Hearts skipper Perry Kitchen admits he was shocked when boss Robbie Neilson handed him the captain's armband.
The United States international has taken over the role from out-of-favour Alim Ozturk, who has not featured in any of the club's six Ladbrokes Premiership fixtures so far this season.
Midfield colleague Don Cowie has led the team out in Ozturk's absence but Neilson has now decided Kitchen is the man for the job.
Read more: Perry Kitchen appointed as new Hearts captain in place of Alim Ozturk
The move came out of the blue for Kitchen, who only checked into Tynecastle six months ago following his switch from DC United.
However, the 24-year-old did not hesitate in accepting the honour and stressed he is determined to uphold Hearts' traditions now that he has been given his new leadership responsibilities.
He told HeartsTV: "It's a tremendous honour for me and I'm really looking forward to taking on the captain's role.
"I'm just thankful for the opportunity. I'm a bit surprised to be honest, but that being said I'm really excited to be given this challenge.
"Me and Robbie have had a few conversations over the past few days and that's how it came about.
"The boys have been great about it, they're very supportive and I've not heard any grumblings so far."
Kitchen was speaking at a media gathering inside the new Hearts Museum, which will officially open its doors to the public on Friday morning.
He added: "The history of this club, the traditions of this club, you know, it's clear to see what this club means to the fans and players.
"Looking around this museum really emphasizes how big a job it is and it's an honour to captain a club that means so much to so many people.
"The fans have been great with me ever since I arrived. They've really helped me and my wife feel at home here and I've no complaints about them!
"Being named captain is obviously a big step for me so I hope to do them proud."
Kitchen will lead out the team for the first time when they host Ross County on Saturday as Hearts look to returning to winning ways following last weekend's defeat to St Johnstone.
He said: "We have to shake off that St Johnstone defeat. It's not going to be easy, Ross County will come here looking for a result.
"We have to do our best to get back on the winning column and try to put another winning streak together."
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