CARLTON has injected youth into its leadership for season 2011, with young stars Bryce Gibbs, Marc Murphy and Jordan Russell joining incumbent skipper Chris Judd in an expanded seven-man group.

Russell was elected for the first time after a player vote, while Gibbs and Murphy return to official roles after stints early in their careers.

In 2007, Gibbs was controversially included in the leadership group before he'd played an AFL game but, like Murphy, relinquished the role when Brett Ratten took over from Denis Pagan as coach the following year.

Murphy and Gibbs, No.1 draft picks from 2005 and 2006, replace retired defender Simon Wiggins and veteran Heath Scotland, who opted out to make way for a younger player.

The trio joins Judd (who was criticised for a perceived lack of leadership in an eventful off-season at the club last year), Andrew Carrazzo, Kade Simpson and Michael Jamison in the group.

Gibbs, 21, is yet to play 100 games but said he was ready to take on another leadership role.

"It’s a pretty stronger indicator that you've got something to offer the group and I’m pretty proud of that," Gibbs told carltonfc.com.au.

"I’m looking forward to improving my leadership skills and qualities by being in the leadership group."

Murphy, 23, reached the 100-game milestone last year and said he was aiming to take his game to another level this season.

"It'll be a good learning experience," Murphy said.

"I think I can bring some experience, the past four or five years and 100 games now, so it's time to step up as a consistent contributor to the team - and I think some of my opinions will help with some of the younger guys coming through."