Carlton’s Marc Murphy has retained the AFL club’s captaincy for the fifth consecutive season, while want-away star Bryce Gibbs remains in the leadership group.

Blues midfield linchpin Murphy, 29, will head a seven-man leadership group, with veteran Kade Simpson his deputy.

Dennis Armfield is among the club’s leaders for the first time in his career, replacing retired forward Andrew Walker.

Patrick Cripps, Sam Docherty and Ed Curnow remain in the leadership group.

Gibbs, the No.1 pick in 2006, is set to face intense scrutiny in his 11th season after the Blues refused to grant him an off-season trade home to Adelaide.

Skipper Murphy managed 10 games last season after injuring his ankle, and has also had shoulder issues which have limited his impact over the years.

Coach Brenton Bolton backed the group to drive standards as the Blues attempt to play in their first finals series since 2013.

“In 2016, we set about building leadership density across our list,” Bolton said.

“This year, we are sticking to the roadmap and ensuring there is a consistent level of leadership across the board.

“With only one change to our leadership group for 2017, we are building on the foundations that were set last season.”