Fraser's Daily Standards Made Him Natural St Mirren Captain, Says McLeish

Jul 10, 2026 4 min read 9 views

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St Mirren manager Craig McLeish has named Marcus Fraser as the club's new captain, highlighting the 32-year-old defender's ability to set standards ev...

St Mirren manager Craig McLeish has heaped praise on Marcus Fraser after confirming the defender as the club's new captain, citing the way he "sets standards" daily at the club. The 32-year-old takes the armband from Mark O'Hara, who has returned to Kilmarnock after a year in Paisley, while Alex Gogic will serve as vice-captain.

McLeish's high praise for Fraser

McLeish did not hold back in explaining why the experienced defender was the clear choice to lead the Buddies into the new Scottish Premiership campaign.

"When you're in the building, you see how Marcus runs the changing room and sets standards, day in, day out, on and off the training pitch," McLeish told BBC Scotland. "Gogic is similar. Even beyond that, we've got an experienced group of players with Declan John, with Jonah Ayunga, Keanu Baccus and Liam Donnelly. We've got a really good core of experienced players that I can lean on at times. But having Marcus lead the group on and off the pitch, I'm delighted with that."

The manager's words underline a longstanding trust in Fraser's influence within the squad, which has been evident since the defender joined St Mirren in 2020. His leadership qualities have now been formally recognized, and the early signs of pre-season indicate a seamless transition.

Fraser's journey to the armband

Fraser came through the Celtic youth system before making his name during a five-year spell at Ross County. Since moving to Paisley, he has become a vital part of the defensive unit, but his crowning moment came in last season's play-off final against Partick Thistle, when his crucial goal preserved St Mirren's top-flight status.

Unsurprisingly, the defender was in buoyant mood when discussing the promotion.

"I had a chat during the week with the manager and the coaching staff and they asked me if I'd like to take the role on - and of course, I jumped at the chance," said Fraser. "I thanked them and I appreciate it. Since they've been in from the end of the season to now, they've really backed me and shown faith in me, so I'm just happy and hopefully I can reward them with performances on the pitch and gelling all the new guys together as well."

He added that the coaching staff had already begun seeking his opinion during pre-season, reinforcing the collaborative environment McLeish is fostering.

O'Hara's departure and squad strength

While welcoming the new captain, McLeish was careful to acknowledge the contribution of the outgoing skipper, Mark O'Hara, whose return to Kilmarnock brought an end to his stint in Paisley. The boss admitted it was a "tough one" on a personal level, given O'Hara's significant role in the side.

"He was such a big part in me sitting in this seat right now, so from a personal point of view it was a tough one," McLeish said. "I've got a really good relationship with Mark and he was a big player for us. He felt that it was probably time for a fresh start and I totally understand that. We thank him for his contribution here and wish him all the best."

McLeish pointed to the experienced core of the squad — including Fraser, Gogic, John, Ayunga, Baccus and Donnelly — as proof that the dressing room is in safe hands. With a blend of proven leaders and emerging talent, the mood around the SMISA Stadium appears cautiously optimistic as the new season approaches.

Key Takeaways

Marcus Fraser's daily leadership and professionalism made him the standout choice for St Mirren captain, according to manager Craig McLeish.
Alex Gogic has been named vice-captain, adding further experience to the Buddies' spine.
Outgoing skipper Mark O'Hara leaves for Kilmarnock with McLeish's blessing and gratitude after playing a key role in the team's recent campaign.
Fraser, who scored the vital play-off final goal to keep St Mirren in the Scottish Premiership last season, is eager to repay the faith shown by the coaching staff.
The squad still boasts considerable experience, with Declan John, Jonah Ayunga, Keanu Baccus and Liam Donnelly all expected to contribute on and off the pitch.