GARY Caldwell would love nothing more than to lead Scotland out against Norway next weekend – but the Celtic defender is not banking on it.
The 26-year-old is set to start his country's latest World Cup qualifier, which will see manager George Burley name a new captain in the absence of the injured Barry Ferguson and the suspended Stephen McManus.
Having established himself as a first
-choice pick under Burley, Caldwell is certainly nearer the top of the list than the bottom in the 25-man squad.
But the self-effacing centre-half said he was refusing to get his hopes up.
"That's the manager's decision," said Caldwell, speaking at a school event organised by the Official Partner of the Scotland Team, Nationwide Building Society.
"He'll pick whoever he sees fit. I'm sure everyone would love that honour, but that's up to the manager.
"It would be great – but, like I said, it's the manager's decision and only one man can do it."
The favourite for the role appears to be Rangers veteran David Weir, who has captained his country on more than one occasion.
The 38-year-old is expected to partner Caldwell at the heart of the defence, with McManus serving a ban for his sending-off in last month's win in Iceland.
Caldwell admits he will miss playing alongside his club captain but is looking forward to reacquainting himself with Weir.
"I've played a few games for Scotland at the back with Davie," he said. "He's got great experience, he had a very good season last year and continued this year, so I don't think it will be difficult for him to come in and we'll get a good understanding during the week."
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The full article contains 328 words and appears in The Scotsman newspaper.
