UNITED SPECIAL

THE transition to United’s next captain is expected to be a smooth one.

Not even the arrival of a new right-back in Diogo Dalot should get in the way of Antonio Valencia officially succeeding Michael Carrick.

The Ecuadorian wore the armband on a consistent basis in Carrick’s absence last season and is unlikely to be stripped of skipper duties now that the midfielder has retired.

But the long-term option, he is not.

The signing of Dalot for around £19m this month is evidence Jose Mourinho is planning for the future.

Dalot is not expected to displace Valencia immediately. But he is seen as the long-term answer on the right of defence.

At 32, Valencia only has so long at the top level.

As remarkable as his powers of endurance are, there were periods last season when he looked in desperate need of a rest.

Dalot will give Mourinho the opportunity to do that when the armband will be passed elsewhere.

Perhaps now, as United plan for life without Carrick, is the ideal time to address the issue of captaincy.

While Mourinho has a squad full of experience, it is lacking obvious choices to be the long-term leader.

Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Ashley Young are all qualified to take it, but none could be considered guaranteed starters.

Nemanja Matic is a natural – but new to the club.

There is an argument that Paul Pogba could thrive given the added responsibility – and the Frenchman is a vocal figure on the pitch and in the dressing room.

But Pogba needs to concentrate on his own game after a fitful season – as well as regain Mourinho’s full trust.

The natural choice is the only player at the club to consistently perform at a world class level.

The best player in the team beyond any shadow of a doubt – and the man United look to more than ever when their backs are against the wall.

David de Gea has already worn the armband – but now might be the time to give it to him permanently.

No other player is more guaranteed to start than the Spanish international, who leads by example with every heroic performance.

At a time when United are trying to convince him to sign a new deal, it would be another opportunity to strengthen his bond with the club.

Not that they need any excuse to reward his incredible form – but with Real Madrid accepting it will cost £100m to prise De Gea away from Old Trafford, the promise of following in the footsteps of great United captains of the past may be the determining factor in ensuring he remains at the club.

United have a long-standing history of rewarding their very best players with the armband.

From Sir Bobby Charlton, to Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona and Wayne Rooney, they have handed the responsibility to the star of the team.

With four club player of the year awards in the last five seasons – De Gea is undoubtedly that.