Sacha Kljestan has been named captain of the New York Red Bulls.

“It’s definitely an honor to be named captain of this club,” Kljestan said. “I am excited about the chance to lead the group.”

Kljestan, a Red Bull since 2015, played in 31 league games for New York last season, and set a franchise record with 20 assists.

“He’s a great leader,” Head Coach Jesse Marsch said. “He’s such a big piece of what we do.”

The Huntington Beach, California, native spent January training with the U.S. Men’s National Team before re-joining New York after the birth of his second child.

“I think the most important thing is that I’m going to represent my teammates, the coaching staff, the entire club and the supporters in the best way possible,” Kljestan said.

Kljestan was named an MLS MVP finalist, an MLS All-Star and MLS Best XI selection last season.

“I really expect his leadership to grow immensely this year now that he’s captain,” Marsch said.