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Toronto FC names Michael Bradley captain ahead of 2015 season

Toronto FC names Michael Bradley captain ahead of 2015 season

Toronto FC is now Michael Bradley's team more than ever.

Bradley was named the club's captain on Tuesday, taking over the role from veteran defender Steven Caldwell, who had worn the armband since 2013.

"I’m extremely proud and excited," said Bradley. "I’ve learned pretty quickly that being captain of a team in this city bears some extra responsibility and extra pressure. I’m looking forward to representing this team and the city in the best possible way."

It is another sign of Bradley's growing influence at TFC, as Caldwell is still in the side and recently reiterated his desire to remain captain. The 27-year-old midfielder's on-field leadership qualities have been routinely lauded, and this offseason he played a significant role in bringing in Jozy Altidore and was also involved in the acquisition of Sebastian Giovinco from Juventus.

"Michael is here for the next four to five years," said head coach Greg Vanney. "We’re building this team to win not just for one year, as you’ve seen with Sebastian who is 28 and Jozy who is 25. This is a long term project for success, so for us it was also choosing Michael for the next several years to take on that responsibility."

The Reds open the 2015 MLS regular season on March 7 on the road against the Vancouver Whitecaps.

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Israel Fehr is a writer for Yahoo Canada Sports. Email him at israelfehr@yahoo.ca or follow him on Twitter.