Geelong star Patrick Dangerfield says he will put his hand up to replace Joel Selwood as Cats captain

Brownlow medallist Patrick Dangerfield says he is one of a handful of players who could “easily assume” the role of captain at Geelong after the retirement of long-time skipper Joel Selwood.

Dangerfield, who is signed until the end of the 2024 season, has been the vice-captain at the Cats since 2017, sharing the role with four-time All-Australian defender Tom Stewart last season.

While they’re not in a hurry to settle on a skipper, Dangerfield said he would put his hand up for the job.

“We’ve got so many different players, to be honest, that could fill that void that’s left by Joel,” he said.

“We’re in a really fortunate position that we have a really strong leadership group. (I’m) probably one of five that could very, very easily assume that role.

“It’s probably not something we’ll pay too much attention to until the end of January or start of February, which is sort of in line with every season.

“I think this decision for us will be about best person for the job for (this) year.

“It’s not really looking any further beyond that. It’s to give us the best chance of winning the Grand Final in season 2023. I get the notion behind longer-term appointments but we also want to win now.

“When we get to that stage we’ll make that call and the coaches will make that call in conjunction with the players and our board.”

The reigning premiers will resume training on January 16, with Dangerfield saying he’s feeling good after battling a calf injury in 2022.

“Every pre-season is sort of catered to the individual so it’s not just one-size-fits-all and particularly as you get older there are adjustments that you make,” he said.

“But by and large, I haven’t missed a session so far.”