Manchester City defender Steph Houghton has been appointed captain of the England women's team by new manager Mark Sampson.

The experienced Casey Stoney gives up the armband to allow 25-year-old Houghton, who joined Women's Super League newcomers City from Arsenal in January, to lead the team.

Sampson had been eyeing a long-term leader of the team and is confident Sunderland-born Houghton has the credentials for the job.

The former Bristol Academy boss said: "When I started as head coach I knew that I wanted a captain who would lead the side for a long time coming, as we build the team and work towards success.

"Steph has many of the qualities needed to be an inspirational leader and the attributes that I want our team to epitomise. She's honest, hard-working, ambitious and has a winning attitude.

"At 25, Steph also has the room and time to improve as a player and grow as a leader, which fits in perfectly with our vision for the team.

"She is being passed the armband by an incredible leader in Casey Stoney, who has been a fantastic England captain and ambassador for women's football. I've spoken with Casey and she will be a great support for Steph moving forward."

Houghton has led England in matches against Norway and Canada already this year, and as permanent captain will lead the team out when she wins her 45th cap in today's World Cup qualifier against Montenegro in Brighton.

She said: "It's a dream come true. To wear an England shirt and to captain your country is something I've dreamed of since a little girl.

"We have such a talented group of girls, and to put on the armband and lead them out in a World Cup qualifier will be a tremendous honour."