PROMOTER Matt Ford argued Hans Andersen’s resurgence since returning to Poole Pirates had made him the obvious choice as team captain.

The 35-year-old Dane takes over on an interim basis from Davey Watt after the Australian was replaced in Poole’s one-to-seven by Bjarne Pedersen on Monday.

Explaining his choice, Ford told the Daily Echo: “Hans has been in quite outstanding form this year and really moved forward.

“I think having a two-year deal in place with us and knowing he will have his testimonial at Poole in 2017 has given him a renewed vigour for the sport.

“I feel he has the right support around him in terms of his personnel and it would be wonderful to see him progress in the Grand Prix qualifiers.

“If he can get back into the Grand Prix on top of riding like he is for us, it would represent a great year and set him up nicely to look beyond 2016.

“I said at the start of the season that Hans would end up in the top five of the Elite League averages despite finishing 20th last year.

“I still believe that to be the case and while you can never legislate for things like injuries, he is set for a very good season.

“He is a very positive guy and hopefully, he can lead the Pirates to more silverware.”