Captain Caldwell..

Stand-in manager Kevin Ball has made his first major decision as Sunderland boss, by handing Steven Caldwell the captaincy for his first game in charge.

With Gary Breen suspended Ball has chosen the Scottish International centre-back to lead to team out in Saturday's home match against Wigan.

'With Gary suspended it's an opportunity for Steve to come into the side and I've named him as captain for Saturday,' Ball told the club's official website.

'When Steve first came to the club my first impressions were he was a great talker on the pitch and played with 100% commitment.

'I've not had a great amount of dealings with him since, but feel he's the right man to lead us in the right direction on Saturday.'

It is arguable that Caldwell will indeed make a better captain than the increasingly unpopular Gary Breen, who's sending off at the weekend was anything but the way a captain should act. There is no question that should Caldwell rise to the challenge and impress, the chance is there for him to make the role permanent.

Caldwell told Sky Sports News, 'It came as quite a shock. I had a session with the new manager which was excellent.

'I'm looking forward to getting out there again and for him to show what he believes in and stamp his authority on the team.

'I'm very proud to be captain of this club and am looking forward to leading the team out.'

Ball also revealed that whilst Caldwell will definately be starting as the new captain, he still hasn't decided on the other 10 positions.

'I haven't decided full stop what the starting eleven will be. Yes I have an idea of what I want to do, but at this moment in time places are still up for grabs and it's up to me and the staff over the next couple of days to address that.'

**what do you think of Caldwell as captain? will he lead by example? And who will Bally's starting eleven be? Have your say on the fans forum here. Register to win prizes for simply posting in the new Members League!**