Patrice Bernier supplants Arnaud as Impact captain
Quebec native was Montreal's 2012 player of year
Midfielder Patrice Bernier has been named captain of the Montreal Impact.
The Brossard, Que., native replaces Davy Arnaud, who is now with D.C. United.
The 34-year-old Bernier has 13 goals and 16 assists in 58 games for Montreal over the last two seasons.
"It is with honour and pride that I wear the captain's armband for the Montreal Impact," Bernier said in a statement released by the Major League Soccer team. "At this stage of my career, having grown up here, this will be a very special experience for me and a new challenge that I am ready to take on.
"It's also nice to be recognized by the coaching staff for my leadership and what I bring to the team. It is now up to me to maintain the standard that was set by Davy Arnaud."
He was named the Impact's player of the year in 2012 and played in the MLS All-Star game last season.
"Patrice is highly respected by his teammates and everyone in this organization," said Impact head coach Frank Klopas. "He knows the club and the city, having started his soccer career in Montreal. He understands what it means to wear the Impact jersey.
"I think he can lead the team on the field and that he will be a great captain for our group."
Marco Di Vaio, Matteo Ferrari and Troy Perkins will be the Impact's vice-captains.
With files from CBCSports.ca