By Turftalker
July 12 2004

Graham Branch will no longer be Burnley club captain after Steve Cotterill decided to give Robbie Blake that honour. Blake (28) is undoubtedly one of the stars of the current team, whose 22 goals last season were quite simply crucial. Read the reasons behind Cotterill's decisions below:

Steve Cotterill could not have given his new captain greater praise today on the official website, Blake must be throughly pleased with both his new job and the level of appreciation his manager clearly has for him:

"Robbie has come back for pre-season leaner and fitter than any season before. He looks hungry and wants to do well, he is a fantastic, top player and his attitude in pre-season has been first class."

"We all know about his skill and ability, but his industry in training has been excellent too."

"He is a good talisman for the club and I feel the best man for the job."

We hope in the coming days to get reaction from the new club captain and we will of course bring it to you.

Longside Comment:

"Making Blake the captain seems to be a very good move. While Graham Branch had the effort levels, he clearly lacked the confidence and voice within the team to be an effective leader on the pitch. While Blake may lack the ability to see the game from the back, which someone like John McGreal may have had, he has the perfect way to lead his team mates - EXAMPLE. As the club's diamond player, and regular top scorer, the Longside believes Steve Cotterill has made the right choice. We commend him for it."