CARLTON has announced an expanded eight-manleadership group for 2014 to be headed by second-year captain Marc Murphy. 

Andrew Carrazzo and Kade Simpson will be jointvice-captains, while defender Michael Jamison returns to the group after 12months in the role of deputy vice-captain. 

As well as Jamison, Bryce Gibbs, LachieHenderson, Brock McLean and Andrew Walker are new inclusions for 2014. 

Key forward Jarrad Waite, however, elected notto nominate for the leadership group this, preferring to focus on his fitnessand availability.   

Retired utility Nick Duigan also left a vacancyin the leadership group after his decision to walk away from the game inDecember. 

General manager of football operations Andrew McKaysaid Murphy had put his stamp on the captaincy in 2013 and would be supportedby a balance of youth and experience. 

"We have the experienced leadership ofSimpson and Carrazzo, together with Brock McLean who is a strong voice both onand off the field," McKay said. 

"After 12 months out of the leadershipgroup, Bryce Gibbs and Michael Jamison return, which is great to see, becausethey’re two very important and respected figures within the playing group. 

"We’re also pleased to see Andrew Walkerand Lachie Henderson step up – both have come off a terrificseason in 2013, finishing second and third respectively in the best andfairest." 

McKay said Waite wanted to focus on getting hisbody right, which created an opportunity for the club’s emerging leaders. 

"He is a terrific leader and will continueto remain one, just not in an official capacity," he said. 

Twitter: @AFL_Nathan