New Adelaide coach Phil Walsh insists gun midfielder Patrick Dangerfield remains a senior leader at the AFL club, despite being overlooked for the captaincy amid rampant speculation about his future.

The Crows’ decision to select key forward Taylor Walker to replace Nathan van Berlo as captain came as a surprise, with Dangerfield and fellow midfielder Rory Sloane seen as more obvious candidates for the role.

The current contracts of Dangerfield and Sloane both run out at the end of the 2015 campaign, with Dangerfield strongly linked with Geelong when he becomes a free agent.

Walsh said players had expressed “strong views” about the captaincy selection but refused to be drawn on the future of Dangerfield or Sloane.

“They had their say,” he told reporters on Wednesday.

“They understood where I came from. At this club, we don’t walk around feeling sorry for ourselves.

“We say what we have to say to the people we need to say it to and then we get on with being a great football club.”

Both players would remain senior leaders at the club despite the speculation about their future, Walsh said.

The 24-year-old Walker, who recently signed a contract extension keeping him at the Crows until at least the end of 2018, has played 84 matches and kicked 197 goals.

Walsh selected the captain from the club’s six-man senior leadership group, which was elected by the players prior to Christmas.

His pick was then ratified by the playing group.

Walker admitted he had a lot to learn in his new role but said he would strive to lead the team back into finals contention.

“Hopefully we get more wins than losses this year and get back to where this club deserves to be,” he said.

“Phil has brought over a great game plan. We just need to get back and be a hard-working footy club.”

Walsh said Walker was a strong competitor who was determined to succeed.

“He’s passionate about this club, he always thinks team first and he consistently meets elite standards,” Walsh said.

“Most importantly, Tex influences others to follow him in the direction I want this club to go.”

Van Berlo had captained the Crows for the previous four years, although his 2014 campaign was ruined by a freak Achilles tendon injury suffered during the pre-season.

“I love the club and in particular the playing group, and am excited about being part of this new era,” said van Berlo.