WILMOT'S BIG CITY HONOUR

Defender Ben says he was shocked to be given Potters captaincy for new Championship campaign

- Brian Dick STOKE CITY

BEN Wilmot admits he was surprised when Mark Robins handed him the Stoke City captaincy for the new Championship season.

The centre-back has led his side to four wins from five Championship matches so far this season to leave the Potters in second place in the early table.

He has also struck up an imposing partnership with Bosun Lawal at the heart of a defence, that in terms of goals conceded - only three - is the joint most secure in the league.

On Saturday, during the 1-0 victory over Birmingham City, Wilmot's leadership was perhaps best summed up by a superb tackle on Blues striker Jay Stansfield, a moment that ignited the bet365 Stadium and proved his credentials.

Speaking about being handed the armband, worn for part of last season by goalkeeper Viktor Johansson, the 25-year-old expressed his pride.