The Montreal Impact announced on Thursday that Patrice Bernier, a native of Brossard, Quebec, has been named the team's new captain.
The 34 year old midfielder was the favourite to become captain and replace Davy Arnaud, who was traded during the off-season to D.C. United. Bernier will be assisted by a trio of vice-captains, namely striker Marco Di Vaio, defender Matteo Ferrari and goalkeeper Troy Perkins.
“It is with honour and pride that I wear the captain’s armband for the Montreal Impact,” declared Bernier. “At this stage of my career, having grown up here, this will be a very special experience for me and a new challenge that I am ready to take on. It’s also nice to be recognized by the coaching staff for my leadership and what I bring to the team. It is now up to me to maintain the standard that was set by Davy Arnaud.”
Bernier had played in Europe and returned to Montreal when the Impact joined the MLS. Bernier has a reputation for being a classy player both on and off the field. He will be depended on for his leadership and experience, and on a marketing side, the Impact will surely want to take advantage of having the native Quebecer wearing the armband for #IMFC.