COLE Skuse says leading Bristol City out for the opening Championship match of the Steve Coppell era will be the proudest moment of his career so far.

New boss Coppell takes charge of a competitive game for the first time since succeeding Gary Johnson when the Robins host newly-promoted Millwall at Ashton Gate tomorrow.

Academy product Skuse, pictured, is expected to be handed the captain's armband and, with it, responsibility for carrying the manager's instructions on to the pitch.

No stranger to the role after deputising for injured skipper Louis Carey throughout pre-season, Skuse admitted: "I'll be honoured if I'm made captain for the first game.

"I've not been told, but if it happens then it will be a proud moment for me. The fact I'm a born and bred Bristolian will make leading the side out against Millwall extra special.

"Obviously, I would rather Louis be fit and in the team, because he is a very experienced player and someone I have the utmost respect for. But he is still coming back from injury and I'll be more than happy to take his place if asked to."

Carey missed the entire pre-season programme after dropping a barbecue on his heel in June and is expected to be sidelined for at least another fortnight. But he still features in Coppell's plans and has been told he will continue as captain for the whole of this season.

Skuse added: "If I do get the armband, it will only be on loan. Louis is a fantastic captain and has made the role his own ever since I can remember. He is respected by all the lads and I'm sure he will be back to lead us sooner rather than later. He is definitely the right man for the job and we were all pleased when he was asked to continue being captain."

The injury which is almost certain to prevent newcomer Nicky Hunt from making his Championship debut for City has left Coppell without a recognised senior right-back for tomorrow's showdown with Kenny Jackett's Lions.

Signed to replace Bradley Orr, who left to join QPR last week, former Bolton defender Hunt twisted an ankle in the 2-0 friendly win over Blackpool and could be out of action for up to three weeks.

Wales international Christian Ribeiro and Carey can also play the role, but both are injured and teenage academy product Joe Edwards remains the only fit right-back on the staff.

Rather than risk such an inexperienced player in such an important fixture, Coppell will consider asking midfielder Skuse to fill in.

"I've played there before a few times before and it's a role I'm familiar with," said Skuse. "It doesn't look as though Nicky Hunt is going to be available and that means an opportunity for someone else to make their mark.

"Joe Edwards has had a fantastic pre-season and he is an option if they don't want change things around too much from the last game against Blackpool. He's a young professional, who has been in and around the squad for the past couple of years.

"I would like to try and hold down a place in midfield if I can. I played a majority of my games in that position last season and I thought things went well. But it's not up to me, it's up to the staff and, if I have to play right-back at the weekend, I'll play right-back."