Veteran Robert Murphy has been named as the Western Bulldogs’ third AFL captain in as many years.

Murphy, 32, replaces Ryan Griffen, who walked out on the club last month and was subsequently traded to Greater Western Sydney.

Griffen had just one season as skipper after replacing Matthew Boyd.

Murphy’s appointment was among the first under the reign of new senior coach Luke Beveridge.

“Bob possesses the qualities to be an exceptional captain, and was the right choice among a healthy list of capable leaders at the club,” said Beveridge.

“He has a great hunger and motivation to succeed in this role, and it’s no surprise he is universally respected in the industry.

“He is just a great football person.”

Murphy was taken by the Bulldogs with pick 13 in the 1999 national draft.

He has played 271 senior games and was a member of the 2011 All-Australian team.

“I’m chuffed to have been nominated and installed as captain of a club that has played such a major part of my life over the past 15 years,” he said.