Smith's appointmen caps a remarkable rise for the late-developing 28-year-old, who had been playing Queensland State League until offered an A-League contract by North Queensland in late 2009.

"I'm going to be taking massive pride. It's a great honour and it's one that I'm going to grasp," said Smith.

"I'm very, very pleased. I was told this morning by the gaffer and I couldn't stop smiling. It hasn't sunk in properly yet. It's a big job, but I'm more than up for it.

"I wasn't expecting it and then the gaffer pulled me aside this morning and said that after talking to some of the other senior boys in the group, they've chosen me to be captain, and I'm very, very honoured by that.

"I'm not going to take it lightly, it's a big responsibility and one that I'm proud to do."

Smith, who had only been elevated to the Roar leadership group when McKay signed to depart, was selected in preference to more experienced candidates in Shane Stefanutto, Michael Theoklitos and Erik Paartarlu.

But the super-reliable central defender said that the club bred a culture of leadership and that the four would continue to operate in unison as they always had.

"I'd newly been established into the leadership group, so that's why it came as such a surprise this morning," he said.

"(All four of us will) be the leaders and I don't expect it to be just myself. I don't expect any of the other guys to change their game.

"They're all very vocal on the pitch and at the end of the day, we need 11 leaders on the pitch."

Postecoglou, the reigning Hyundai A-League Coach of the Year, said that Smith's innate toughness and leadership qualities that had shone through and helped him to scoop the coveted reward.

"From the moment he's walked into the club, he's got this quiet determination about him," he said.

"He's got all the trademarks of being somebody who will lead by example. He's well respected among the group."

"I like the dynamics of Shane and Michael and Erik, who are pretty vocal, being part of that leadership group – it gives us a good balance.

"But Smithy I just think is a natural leader and I'm pleased to offer him the captaincy.

"We pride ourselves on the collective and the group and no individual will ever be missed in that respect.

"I'm sure Smithy will bring his own personality and character to it and that will fall together quite well."