On his 131st appearance for Adelaide United, Ryan Kitto wore the Captain’s armband for the first time in his Reds career against Newcastle Jets last weekend.
The 27-year-old has been one of Adelaide’s most consistent players to start the season and has illustrated his versatility as a winger in the campaign’s infancy before reverting to left-back.
Kitto said it was a tremendous honour and humbling experience to lead the squad.
“I was extremely humbled and it was an absolute honour for the coaches and players to trust me to lead the team that game,” he told reporters at a press conference.
“We’re very fortunate in the position, that we’ve got a number of really good leaders and experienced players in the squad.
“It was just business as normal and it was a special occasion for me I’m just glad we got the win.”
Both the men’s and women’s teams will be in action at Coopers Stadium on Friday night in what will be an intriguing double header.
Adrian Stenta’s side begin proceedings against Newcastle Jets with Carl Veart’s charges later hosting Sydney FC.
Kitto said the increased integration of the two teams has never been stronger and hoped there will be more double headers at the venue into the future.
He encouraged fans to come down and show their support with gates opening from 4pm.
“It’s brilliant, it’s magnificent, I think it’s how it should be,” he said.
“Hopefully we can get a lot of people through the gate to come support both teams.
“Both teams are in really good positions at the moment and we’re united as a club and we’re right behind each other.
“Hopefully we can kick-off the weekend positively, both sides.”
