BLACKBURN Rovers defender Andy Todd today admitted he's only got himself to blame for being axed from the first team by manager Mark Hughes.

The former Charlton and Bolton stopper, who was voted Rovers' player of the year last season, has paid the ultimate price for headbutting Tottenham's Andy Reid in the 0-0 draw at Ewood on August 24 as he's not only lost his place in the side, he's also been temporarily stripped of the captaincy too.

Todd has not figured in Hughes' starting eleven since he pleaded guilty to an FA violent conduct charge relating to that clash with Reid last month.

A subsequent three-match ban meant he was forced to sit out the games against Bolton, Newcastle and Huddersfield and his replacement, Zurab Khizanishvili, did so well in his absence that he has not been able to force his way back in again since.

On top of that, Ryan Nelsen has also assumed the role of captain - an appointment which could yet become permanent considering the success the team has enjoyed under the Kiwi's leadership.

But, while Todd is frustrated at having to settle for a place on the bench, he admits he can't complain about being dropped because the situation is all of his own making.

The 30-year-old said: "I've only got myself to blame after getting involved with Andy Reid from Tottenham.

"I've since served my punishment but, to be fair, the lads have been different class while I've been out.

"They got a great result at Manchester United and another good result against West Brom on Saturday, so I'll just have to be patient, keep myself fit, and if the chance comes then make sure I take it."

Todd's spat with Reid was all the more frustrating given that he had worked so hard on trying to keep his fiery temper in check during the previous 12 months.

However, unlike his clash with Arsenal's Robin Van Persie in the FA Cup last season, when he was accused of deliberately trying to elbow the Dutchman (a charge that was later dismissed by the FA), Todd accepts he got the punishment his actions deserved on this occasion.

"I hold my hands up on this one," said Todd.

"With the other situation against Arsenal, I knew I was innocent but with this one I hold my hand up.

"I obviously reacted badly to him kicking me off the ball. I did put my head to him but I don't think it warranted him throwing himself to the ground like he did.

"But I still deserved to get punished and, like I've said, I've only got myself to blame for being out of the team."

Meanwhile, Preston manager Billy Davies has admitted he tried to sign Matt Jansen on loan.

The North End chief is desperate to boost his fire-power but his attempt to lure Jansen to Deepdale failed.

"We have been looking for some time for extra firepower, but clubs just don't want to release their players," said Davies.