Valencia midfielder Enzo Perez has admitted being handed the club captaincy surprised him.
Perez joined the club for a 25 million euro fee from Benfica in January 2015, but has been elevated to the role of captain following the departure of Paco Alcacer to Barcelona.
"I never imagined that I'd be given the captaincy, it surprised me," stated the 30-year-old midfielder.
"It's a role that requires hard work and the respect of your teammates, so I'm really looking forward to it.
"Being the captain of Valencia is an honour and a privilege."
Perez believes the appointment of new manager Pako Ayestaran was important for him in terms of trust and understanding.
"Pako is the coach who has given me the most in my career," continued Perez.
"The trust he has given me feels very important and he makes me feel like a leader."
The Argentine midfielder was limited to 11 league appearances last season due to injury.
