Chris Hughton feels Norwich City will get the best of both worlds from a captaincy job share between Seb Bassong and Russell Martin.

The Canaries' boss revealed after his side's final pre-season warm up against Panathinaikos both men will get the chance to lead the club in the Premier League, with Martin also providing a vital link between the management and the playing staff at all levels.

'I thought about it long and hard,' said Hughton. 'What we have in Russell is someone who has been here at this club for a long time and knowing the sort of character he is I am sure from day one he has performed not just on the pitch but around the club, around the young players and he is a great point for communication for myself and other staff members.

'What he has done is perform the role of captain on numerous occasions as well so what I wanted alongside that was Seb involved in some way. Where we are as a club at this moment I also want to be mindful of players who have performed well. There have been some changes and new faces this summer and I was delighted with Seb's contribution last season and I wanted him involved. In some games, even with Seb playing, Russ will take the armband and that is a reflection of what it means to the club.'

Martin pledged his long term future to the Canaries earlier this summer by signing an extended deal and the versatile defender views the captaincy as further evidence of his commitment to the cause.

'Everyone knows how I feel about playing for this club and the great relationships I share with the supporters, players and staff here,' he said. 'The gaffer has recognised something within me, which he believes validated the appointment of an over-riding club captain and I thank him for that. I am honoured to be offered this role, a position I have accepted with relish and delight and will fulfil with the enthusiasm and maturity it deserves.

'My role is to be there for all the players at the club, on and off the pitch, from scholars through to the first team if they need any assistance, and to work with Seb in helping get the maximum performance and togetherness from our squad on and off the pitch.'

Bassong's impact during his debut season was recognised before kick-off when he was formally presented with his player-of-the-year trophy but the centre-back is firmly focussed only on the new campaign.

'It is a good memory but now it is over. I am looking forward to the new season and trying to play the best I can. I'll try to be as good as I can last year,' he said. 'I am really honoured to be made captain. I will work very hard and do everything I can to repay the trust the manager has had in me. I just want to thank the fans for their support.'