DUNN HANDED NEW ROVERS ROLE

Dunn - will deputise for skipper Nelsen.

Blackburn manager Paul Ince has appointed midfielder David Dunn as the club's vice-captain.

Dunn, 28, will be Ryan Nelsen's deputy at Ewood Park and should lead the team against NAC Breda in Saturday's friendly while the regular skipper undertakes international duty with New Zealand.

Dunn told www.rovers.co.uk: "If Nelly is missing then I'll be able to captain the team which will be great. I'm pleased with it."

The former England international returned to Blackburn in January 2007 after a spell at Birmingham, and new boss Ince has been impressed with his recent attitude.

Ince said: "Since I've come in he's been an excellent example, not just to the young lads but to everybody else.

"Being a local lad, I think it's important, and he's got leadership qualities.

"On the field he's a fantastic player, he can make things happen. He's got responsibilities now both on and off the pitch, and I just thought it was the right idea."