Mile Jedinak will captain the Socceroos against Ecuador with coach Ange Postecoglou describing the armband as a reward for Australia's only regular starter in the English Premier League.
Getting the nod for the London match means Jedinak is now the frontrunner to lead the Socceroos at the World Cup in Brazil.
Former captain Lucas Neill was overlooked for the youthful 23-man squad which tackles the South Americans on Wednesday night (Thursday morning AEDT) at The Den.
Jedinak, who captains Crystal Palace in the EPL, says he's honoured to be given the opportunity to lead the national side.
"It's probably the hugest, biggest honour you could have as a footballer, captaining your country," the 29-year-old told reporters at the match venue.
"It's going to be a massive honour and something I definitely won't take lightly.
"It is something I'm really looking forward to."
Postecoglou said Jedinak was a key player heading into the World Cup because he's one of few Australians playing at the highest level.
"It's a reward for him," the Australian manager told reporters.
"He's playing in one of the toughest leagues in the world, captaining his club side and playing well.
"He's an outstanding candidate to lead us tomorrow night. Beyond that Mile is in the same boat as everyone else - he needs to continue to play well and continue to show form."
Postecoglou has previously said he doesn't understand the public's "obsession" with the Socceroos captaincy.
The ex-Melbourne Victory boss clarified that position on Tuesday.
"It's not that I don't think it's important, I just don't think it's the most important thing right now," Postecoglou said.
The manager insisted given he'd just taken over the side ahead of Brazil "there are bigger priorities".
Other players in the mix for the Aussie armband included Mark Milligan and Tim Cahill.
New York-based Cahill, the oldest player in the 23-man squad, said Jedinak had his full support.
"It's the right choice because Mile is a great leader and a great footballer," the 34-year-old told reporters at The Den.
"It's the most sensible choice because he'll be playing every game and definitely, in that midfield role, he's someone who will be running the team and driving the team. I am very happy for Mile."
Cahill said Postecoglou still wanted him to act as an "elder statesmen and someone who can really leave my mark on these youngsters".
