MATTHEW Rees has been named as the new Scarlets captain after a three-way leadership concept was unveiled by the region.

The Wales and Lions hooker takes over the captaincy from Mark Jones, while Stephen Jones has been named vice-captain by head coach Nigel Davies.

And David Lyons has been named international skipper, with the job of filling in for Rees and Jones when they are away on international duty.

It is a decision which Davies hopes the region will benefit greatly from due to the experience of the trio.

He said: "What we have in this group are three natural leaders. They all have different qualities and strengths which will benefit our group and the mix of players we have.

"They will work closely together to provide a consistency and continuity in how we lead our players forward throughout the season.

"Matthew brings a fresh, new dynamic to the captaincy. He has had great experience in recent years and has matured hugely as a player.

"His natural leadership qualities are obvious on and off the field, and he sets very high standards for himself and others.

Strengths

"He will bring some different strengths to the Scarlets captaincy, including a mental toughness and hard edge which will be good for this squad."

Rees, who joined the Scarlets six years ago, has set himself a target of helping turn the region's fortunes around.

The Scarlets were disappointing in the Magners League last term, while they only qualified for the forthcoming Heineken Cup campaign after the Blues won the Amlin Cup.

Rees said: "With experienced guys like Steve and David backing me, I think we'll have a lot of strength and focus in getting this squad to perform.

"For me, it's about getting back to winning ways, and I want to see Parc y Scarlets become a much tougher place to come and play."