Town defender Tommy Smith could be named New Zealand’s captain as successor to QPR's Ryan Nelsen, who has announced that he will retire from playing when he takes over as head coach at Toronto FC at the start of February. Smith has skippered the All Whites when Nelsen - who replaces Blues legend Paul Mariner at the MLS side - has been absent since the end of last season.

Coach Ricki Herbert is yet to make a decision and is weighing up his options, which include Smith, West Ham centre-half Winston Reid and Andrew Durante, an Australian central defender who captains the Wellington Phoenix and who is currently in the process of switching allegiance to his adopted country.

Herbert said: "Tommy's had a go at it and I think that's important. I think Winston comes well into the mix and, like I say, who knows with Andrew.

“There's a bit of red tape to go yet but I think they'd be three very strong contenders to lead the side in a very good way. A very strong way."

Smith has paid tribute to Nelsen on Twitter: "Gutted that Nelly has retired from international football. Will be sorely missed on and off the pitch. Great player, great leader and most of all a great person.

"I wish him all the best in what I'm sure will be a very successful managerial career."

Smith, 22, has won 21 full caps for the country he qualifies for having lived there between the ages of eight and 16, and also appeared at last summer's Olympics for their U23 side.

Meanwhile, former Blues loan keeper Stephen Henderson has been named in a provisional Republic of Ireland squad for a friendly with Poland next month. Henderson, who has said he would like to return to Town having recently ended a three-month loan spell, is yet to win a full cap.

Elsewhere, rumours circulating last night claiming that Charlton had agreed a fee with Colchester for Blues target Anthony Wordsworth appear to have no basis.

Photo: Action Images

petermorris added 20:00 - Jan 23 Spot on Sindre.
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Dissboyitfc added 07:22 - Jan 24 Top attitude from smith, lets face it he started with promise then had an injury and a dodgy period, had some real howlers under Keane, but has worked hard and is now beginning to see some rewards for his efforts both club and country. Not one reason to think him being captain of his country will affect his town career in a negative way.......COYB
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