RYAN Nelsen admits it was the right time to hand over the Blackburn Rovers captaincy as he concentrates on his new role of club skipper.

The New Zealand international was replaced as Rovers captain on the field by centre back partner Chris Samba at the start of this campaign but insists the change was ‘no big deal’.

Nelsen, 33 later this month, will still lead the All Whites in their friendlies against Honduras and Paraguay over the next few days but had no problems with allowing Samba take the armband permanently at club level.

Samba captained Rovers during the latter stage of last season, in Nelsen’s absence through injury, and excelled in the role.

The Congolese giant has continued his strong performances this time round and Nelsen is more than happy to keep the status quo.

“It’s no big deal,” said Nelsen. “I am the club captain but no longer the captain on the park. Chris is an incredible player and at 26 it was the right time to do it (hand him the captaincy).

“I had five and a half years as captain.

“My new role as club captain is a bit like being on a board when they have an old guy who they don't want to get rid of so they find him a new job.”