Steve Birnbaum, a U.S. national team defender entering his fourth MLS season, was named D.C. United’s team captain, replacing Bobby Boswell.
Coach Ben Olsen revealed his choice Thursday, two days before the opener against Sporting Kansas City at RFK Stadium.
Boswell captained the squad for three years but appears slated for a reduced role in this, his 13th season. Based on preseason lineups, Birnbaum and Steve Franklin will form Olsen’s first-choice partnership in central defense. Boswell, who will turn 34 this month, worked primarily with Kofi Opare in the friendlies.
Even without the captain’s armband, Boswell figures to remain an influential figure.