Plymouth Argyle: Curtis Nelson will be a 'great leader'

Nelson joined Argyle's academy in 2009 after being released by Stoke City

Plymouth Argyle's Peter Hartley says fellow defender Curtis Nelson will be a "great leader" for the club.

Nelson has been given the role of Argyle captain following Conor Hourihane's transfer to Barnsley.

"Without a doubt he's going to be a great leader," Hartley, who joined Argyle last month after leaving Stevenage, told BBC Radio Devon.

"To be 21-years-old and to be captain of such a big club it's credit to the lad's character as a player."

Nelson, who can play at centre-back and full-back, signed a new Argyle contract until 2016 in May and has played 143 games for the club, scoring five goals.

He made his debut at the start of the 2010-11 season as a 17-year-old and has seen the club go through two relegations and administration, before being taken over by James Brent in October 2011.

"No-one deserves it more than Curtis," Hartley added.

"I have no doubt that he'll lead us to a very successful season."