GOALKEEPER Neto has been selected as Cherries' new club captain, replacing Lloyd Kelly.

Some eyebrows were raised when the Brazilian took the armband in Kelly's absence at Brighton last weekend, rather than vice-captain Adam Smith.

But today, O'Neil confirmed the 33-year-old will keep the captain's role on a permanent basis, with Kelly stripped of the armband.

Defender Kelly had officially been skipper since January 2022, selected by former boss Scott Parker, to replace Steve Cook in the role.

Discussing his decision to give Neto the armband, boss O'Neil said: "Neto will be our new club captain. Adam Smith will remain as vice-captain, in his role that he already had.

"I just feel that Nets is an impressive individual, on and off the pitch. He has real leadership qualities. Since he’s come in, I’ve just been very impressed with how good he is around the group.

"I think it’s important to talk about Lloyd as well, and how well he did in the role, for a young lad.

"A young centre-back who played a huge part in the success of the football club last season. This season has obviously been a little bit tricky for him injury wise.

"I think it’s important for Lloyd that we help him get back to where he was, fitness wise.

"But I feel Neto has some real, good qualities that we would be silly not to tap in to. I think especially in the transfer window with the players we’ve recruited, Neto has a real good standing in the group. I think it will benefit us."

Neto, a one-time Brazil international, joined Cherries from Barcelona last summer and has made 12 appearances for the club.