JOE Partington considers it “a real honour” to be leading Eastleigh into Vanarama National League battle this season.

The Fareham-based 26-year-old was a highly popular choice when manager Chris Todd unveiled him as the Spitfires’ new skipper.

Not only was the former AFC Bournemouth defender the standout performer of 2015/16, sweeping the board at the end-of-season awards night, but he is one of few home-grown Hampshire players in a squad fully focused on promotion to the Football League.

“I had a chat with the gaffer on the first day of pre-season and he asked if I’d be his captain. I wasn’t really expecting it because I knew he’d signed a squad full of leaders with good experience.

"Some of them have been captains during their careers, so it’s a real honour that the gaffer considered me.

“It’s a nice feeling and a real good personal achievement,” smiled the rampaging right-back.

“I think some of the new lads are moving to this area but, in terms of upbringing, I’m one of the local ones.

“I captained the side for three games last season when Reidy, Strevs and Dukes (Paul Reid, Ben Strevens and Andy Drury) weren’t able to fulfil the duty and I enjoyed it.

“I’m younger than some of the others and there are a lot of guys I can look up to, like Pipey (new signing David Pipe) who’s been a captain elsewhere.

“But the gaffer told me he was captain when he was 26, so it’s not daunting for me. We’re all good friends and teammates and I’m really excited for the new season.

“Last season we maybe underachieved a bit, but this year we’re all up for having a real good go at it. There’s a buzz around the place and I think the fans have got something special to look forward to.”

Eastleigh are off to Scotland on Wednesday to continue their pre-season build-up with games against Scottish Premiership side Hamilton Academicals (Wednesday, 7.45pm) followed by Lowland League outfit East Kilbride on Saturday (3pm).

“We’ve never really done a pre-season tour before,” said Partington. “With the new lads coming in, it will be good to spend time together getting to know each other. It’s different going away for five days rather than just coming in for training.

“Hopefully we’ll get some good work done up there and come back fitter.”