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Murray Wenzel

Andrews, Neale to share Brisbane Lions captaincy

Harris Andrews (l) and Lachie Neale (r) will be the Brisbane Lions' co-captains for season 2023. (Darren England/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

Lachie Neale wasn't turned off the idea of becoming Brisbane's skipper despite the leadership changes at half of the AFL's clubs this year.

The Brownlow Medallist was confirmed as Lions co-captain alongside fullback Harris Andrews on Wednesday, the pair taking over the post held by Dayne Zorko for the last five years.

Neale and Andrews couldn't be split in a five-horse race that also included new vice-captain Hugh McCluggage and contenders Lincoln McCarthy and Josh Dunkley.

Coach Chris Fagan's contract was also extended until 2025 in a show of faith as the former Hawthorn staffer awaits an investigation into historical racism claims during his time at that club.

Recruited from Fremantle, Neale said he'd lean on his first skipper Matthew Pavlich and take parts of Nat Fyfe, David Mundy and Zorko's styles too.

Zorko, 34, was one of nine captains to relinquish their responsibilities this year, while Dockers star Fyfe admitted he was "cooked" by the mental and physical toll of a tough 2022 after he too stood down.

But Neale said he didn't hesitate once Zorko vacated the chair, adamant his performance won't be diminished by the duty.

"No, I don't think so and being a co-captain helps; Harris and Hugh as vice and the other leaders on the field, we spread the load well," he said.

Harris Andrews (l) and Lachie Neale (r) will be the Brisbane Lions' co-captains for season 2023. (Darren England/AAP PHOTOS) (AAP)

"I don't think it'll take away anything from my performance. If anything it'll enhance the way I play my footy.

"Maybe not more disposals or goals, but the way I play my footy I think is going to help me and I'll improve."

Neale was linked to a return to Western Australia before last season but has since signed a contract extension tying him to Brisbane until 2026.

"I've always loved this club since I stepped through the door," he said.

"I'll be a Lion for life for sure and to be etched into the history books as a captain of the club, it's pretty uncomfortable given some of the names that have done it."

Zorko is a Gold Coast product but Andrews is the first local talent to lead the team after graduating through Brisbane's development system.

"It's an awesome opportunity, to come through the academy as an 18-year-old and set a bit of an example for girls and boys in Brisbane and Queensland," he said.

"We're all really great mates, work really hard together and want the best for each other. I'm really excited for where we can take this club."

The Lions announced the appointments in style, the captaincy trio aboard a 26 metre super yacht that docked in front of waiting media on the Brisbane River.

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