The England international, a lifelong supporter and former season ticket holder at St. James’ Park, will wear the armband in Sunday’s VisitMalta Weekender friendly against French side RC Strasbourg.

Dan led the side out on five occasions last season, having been a key part of the first-team leadership group.

The vastly experienced 34-year-old is the club’s fourth-highest appearance maker within the current squad and has 11 England caps to his name, including three at this summer’s FIFA World Cup.

Dan said: “It’s an absolute honour to be named captain of Newcastle United. It’s always an immense privilege to represent this football club, especially when I have been trusted with the armband on previous occasions, but to lead the team on a permanent basis is going to be really special.

“It’s been an incredible journey since I joined the club four-and-a-half years ago – we’ve achieved some amazing things together and enjoyed some unforgettable moments. I believe there’s still more to come and I’m relishing the responsibility of pushing everybody every single day to make sure that is the case.”

Newcastle United head coach, Matthias Jaissle, added: “Dan is a natural leader and a perfect fit for the role of Newcastle United captain. He puts the interests of the team ahead of his own every time he steps onto the pitch and always gives maximum commitment in everything he does.

“Off the pitch, he leads by example in how he conducts himself. Not many people understand what this club means to the city better than Dan and that experience will be vital in helping guide our younger players through this period of change and adaptation.”