NEW Belle Vue supremo David Gordon has tipped Joe Screen to be a Captain Marvel when he leads the Aces into the new campaign in March.

The 34-year-old Warrington-based star is the new skipper following the exit of world champion Jason Crump and he is thrilled to be leading the famous club.

Screen began racing with the Aces as a 16-year-old prodigy in 1989 and is now at a stage of his career where he can hand down his experience to a side which will have a younger age profile this year.

Riders like Simon Stead, James Wright and new signing Kevin Doolan can all learn from Screen and managing director Gordon told M.E.N. Sport: "I am sure Joe will prove to be an inspirational choice as captain.

"He has always had the club at heart and is fired up for the big challenge that lies ahead of us.

"Joe is training hard in the gym after finishing last season on the injured list and there is also a lot of effort going into the preparation of his bikes.

Practice

"He is always prepared to help young riders and that is what we are looking for to complete the team.

"Joe has also suggested that we have the team together for a special pre-season practice session, which will enable the riders to get to know each other, and we will be doing that."

Screen is looking forward to the captaincy, a job he has done before at Belle Vue in the John Perrin era and also for England in Australia so he will not be found short on experience.

He was critical of team spirit at one point last year and wants to play his part in keeping it right next season.

He said: "A captain's job in speedway can be just tossing the coin before a meeting but I mean to get involved more than that."

The new management are pursuing a number of options as they work to fill the three places which are still available in the side.

Gordon added: "We are in the process of considering a number of options but we won't rush into anything because we intend to finish up with a well-balanced side."

The Aces have made a significant change to the pricing system with children under 10 being admitted free while family tickets are é35 for two adults and three children up to 15. Other prices are pegged at last season's figures.

There will be a meeting for all staff at the stadium next Monday (7.30pm) with a public meeting on Monday, January 15.

Is Screen the man to lead the Aces to glory? Have your say.