Speaking at Monday’s pre-match press conference ahead of Tuesday’s opening Champions League group game at home to Red Star Belgrade, Walker confirmed that he had been selected as one of the quintet of City’s senior on-field leaders after a vote held by the first team squad.
Walker, who signed a new two-year contract extension last week, has already worn the City armband with distinction this term, and captained the side to UEFA Super Cup glory against Sevilla in Athens last month.
Ahead of the meeting with the Serbian champions, Walker described being handed the City armband as a special moment in his illustrious career.
And looking ahead to the advent of the European campaign as City set out in defence of the Champions League crown we won for the first time back in June, Walker said the hunger to kick on and succeed again burned brightly amongst the whole group.
“Yes, the captain’s vote has come and the five have been chosen and we will lead the team for the season and make sure everyone is in check and the fines are paid up,” Walker quipped.
“The order doesn’t matter. It will be myself, Kevin De Bruyne, Rodri, Ruben (Dias) and Bernardo (Silva).
“(Wearing the armband) is something I’ve been very honoured to do and it’s a privilege to lead this special group out. I will continue to do that.
“Hopefully, I will lead by example on and off the field to make sure we collect the trophies at the end of the season.”
Addressing the challenge of seeking to go out and defend our European crown meanwhile, Walker had a simple, succinct message for everyone.
“I think it’s our job,” the England defender declared.
“We’re at a massive club for a reason as the manger believes in us and we’re all great players.
“It comes from within to keep going and the hunger is still definitely in the dressing room from the players and the manager.
“He still wants to win more. He won’t settle for second and we need to follow his footsteps.
“What we have done it’s in the past now and we draw a line under it.
“He drew a diagram at the start of the season and said we start at the bottom of the mountain, and we have to climb again.
“We’ve won it all but to go again and again is what separates good teams to great teams.”
