Jones said: "I realise that over the last few weeks the coaching team have been looking at the situation and assessing how the playing squad works together.

"And I’m proud that, having looked closely at a very strong group of players, they have shown faith in my abilities to lead the Ospreys.

"I have been involved with the ongoing, two-way discussions and kept fully informed of the position, and I’m obviously delighted that I will now be able to continue the job I have been doing over the last two seasons."

Ospreys head coach Sean Holley said the region had taken its time assessing the captaincy role, describing it as a crucial appointment.

"With it being Scott Johnson’s first pre-season at the Ospreys, and Ryan and the Lions players not returning to training until August, it was important that we took the chance to look at the dynamics within the group to make the right decision," said Holley.

"There was also the concern that we have had about Ryan’s workload being over-burdened, and he has been fully involved in our discussions all along so he has been well aware of what our line of thinking was and why.

"He fully understands the situation and has been able to address any concerns."

It proved a frustrating summer for Jones after he missed out on selection for the Lions' South Africa trip. He was then barely in the country for 24 hours following his call-up as a mid-tour replacement before injury meant a rapid return home.

The Ospreys face a Magners League opener away to Connacht on Friday night.