MARK Hughes has a tough decision to make regarding the captaincy as Blackburn Rovers head to Everton this weekend for an FA Cup third round tie.

Regular skipper Lucas Neill is suspended for the trip to Goodison Park, which begs the question who will take the armband in the Aussie's absence?' The favourite would appear to be mild-mannered Dutchman Andre Ooijer, who has led the side with distinction on a number of occasions already this term.

But take a look through the rest of the team and there's no shortage of candidates who would also make good captain material' given the opportunity.

In terms of experience and stature within the club, it's difficult to ignore the claims of Brad Friedel and Tugay, who are not only the two longest serving players at the club, they are also two of Hughes' most consistent performers.

Neither man is a shouter and bawler in the Roy Keane mould, but both command a similar amount of respect amongst their team-mates because of what they have achieved in the game over the last decade.

Then there's Andy Todd, who proved to be a reliable captain for much of last season, until he angered Hughes by throwing the armband on the floor in a fit of pique at Birmingham.

Several weeks ago, the idea of Todd regaining the captaincy was a non-starter because Hughes had frozen him out of his plans.

However, the defender has since played his way back into favour and, in some people's eyes, he deserves a second chance as skipper.

But if it's a tub-thumping, fist clenching leader Hughes wants then perhaps he should look no further than Robbie Savage.

Few players epitomise the work ethic that courses through Hughes' side more than Savage, whose appetite for a scrap was instrumental in Rovers winning three games on the spin over Christmas and the New Year.

Hughes has made Savage his captain once before, albeit for half an hour during his time as the Wales manager, and he would have no problem giving it him again, although the Rovers boss is quick to point out that his all-action midfielder does not need an armband to be a leader on the pitch.

"The fact he's never been made captain at Blackburn is not a slight on Robbie. He could take the armband at any point," said Hughes.

"It's just the circumstances haven't been there to give him that opportunity, but I'd have no qualms in giving him the armband.

"He's the type of player who gets everyone going. Certainly, the home fans have taken him to their hearts, and away from home he continues to irritate everyone, so there's no change there!"

There were those who questioned the wisdom of Hughes' decision to sign Savage from Birmingham, and some still do two years down the line.

But while the midfielder's abrasive style may not suit everyone's tastes, most fans would agree they would rather see him playing for Rovers rather than against them.

There are no regrets on Hughes' part about bringing Savage to Rovers. In fact, the Ewood chief sees him as the heartbeat of his team, which is why he gave him a new contract last week.

"Robbie's probably having his best season since he's been here," said Hughes.

"He had problems initially when he first came here with injuries and what have you, but he played well towards the end of last season and really kicked us over the line, and this year he's been one of our more consistent and influential players.

"He's free from injury now, and he's benefitting from the work he's had in the last two years or so, so he's stronger now than he's ever been.

"I'm sure if you asked Robbie, he'd tell you he's playing the best football of his career.

"He feels comfortable in his surroundings, and he knows there are people around him who will encourage him and make him the best he can be.

"That's why we get the response from him that we do.

"He needs that feeling that he's an important member of the squad, and the fans love him, too, which is important for him as well."

In the long term, Ryan Nelsen will probably resume as captain once he recovers from the hamstring injury that has kept him on the sidelines all season.

But regardless of who gets the armband on Sunday, Hughes is clear about one thing.

"In my opinion, you need 11 captains on the pitch," added the Rovers chief."