Leeds Carnegie have announced that former England and British Lions hooker Andy Titterrell has agreed a new two year contract with the club and will become the side's captain for the 2011-12 season.

Titterrell, who suffered a season ending knee injury last November, was out of contract at the end of the season but has agreed a new deal and says he is excited about the future at Headingley Carnegie.

He commented, "Obviously there was a bit of uncertainty following relegation. Unfortunately I was not able to contribute on the field in the second half of last season but I feel I have a lot to still contribute over the next five or six years. I am looking forward to the opportunity of getting back out there and playing and I am very excited about the future.

"We have a chance to define where the club is going over the next three or four years this season. We have got some great young talent here and I honestly believe we can build something over the long term that will make us a sustainable side in the Aviva Premiership."

Commenting on his appointment as captain, he added, "It is a massive honour to be asked to captain any team but especially so by Leeds Carnegie in the position that we find ourselves.

"The club has shown a great of faith in me and I want to repay that in the coming years. I was honoured to be asked to give my input into how we rebuild the club and I know that we will be able to put Leeds back on the map."

Titterrell will be working with new Head Coach Diccon Edwards this season and he says he is looking forward to developing a relationship with the new boss.

He added, "I did not spent much time with Diccon in my first six months here and obviously last season he was at the RFU.

"But everyone at the club can not speak highly enough of him and his knowledge of player development, especially here in Yorkshire, is second to none. I think he is a fantastic signing for the club and he brings with him a wealth of knowledge about our young players, who will enjoy working alongside him again, and talent across the country from his time with the England set up.

"Together we will be trying to put the pieces back together and working towards building a core foundation to our club. We will be rebranding the side and giving clear direction about what we are who and what we represent. Diccon is someone who brings a lot of energy and will give us clear direction and objectives for the season," added Titterrell.

Titterrell is confident he will be 100% for the start of the new season and admitted that his hunger for the game has only been increased by his time out.

He added, "I can't wait for pre-season to get started. I am now seven months post operation on my knee and if we had games, I could be in with a chance of playing. However, with us not having a pre-season game until August, I will use the time wisely to make sure that I am fully recovered and ready to go once the season is upon us."

Head Coach Diccon Edwards said that Titterrell was a natural choice as his captain. He added, "He is everything that epitomises the attitude we want to bring to our squad next season. His attitude, dedication and loyalty to club are an example to every player."

"I am excited about working with him and building a good relationship with him. He will bring the best out of people around him and will be a great example for our young players."