Eric Abidal vows to lead by example

Monaco defender Eric Abidal has admitted his delight after learning that he will wear the armband for the French outfit in the new season.

The 33-year-old, who arrived at the Ligue 1 side from Barcelona last month, is one of a number of new players to join the newly-promoted side this summer.

"I'm very happy. I'm ready and full of desire and I will try to show that on the pitch," Abidal told FIFA.com.

"At 33, I must take on my role and I'm ready to do so. I spoke to the coach. I like to give, without necessarily receiving. If the others are happy, if we win, then I will be very happy."

Monaco have spent in the region of £124m on new players this summer.