He was in the running right from the start but it was thought Shay Given could be offered the position because he has been at the club longer.
But Glenn Roeder says his position as goalkeeper cannot be as influential in the team as a player at the heart of the action in the centre of midfield.
Roeder: "I have been captain of Newcastle United and I know what a great honour it is, and what is needed to fill the role. In Scott Parker and Shay Given I see two players who can do the job.
"Scott will be captain and Shay vice-captain."
Ironically United's stand-in goalkeeper Steve Harper became the first 'keeper ever to captain Newcastle when he stepped in to replace Given in a Carling Cup tie.