INFLUENTIAL midfielder Danny Jackman is “the real captain” of Worcester City, insists centre-back Graham Hutchison.

Jackman is set to lead City out at the Victoria Ground tomorrow (3pm) when they take on Nuneaton Town in National League North.

In the 33-year-old’s absence, manager Carl Heeley appeared to favour Hutchison as he captained his side for the first four games of the season.

Experienced defender Andy Gallinagh carried the responsibility against Alfreton Town and in City’s 3-1 win at Telford United in midweek while a “tired” Jackman sat on the bench.

Hutchison says he has “no problem” playing without the captain’s armband and firmly believes Worcester-born Jackman is the right man for the job.

“I was just stepping in for Jacko,” said the 23-year-old, who also skippered City for much of pre-season.

“When I first got the captaincy, it was not something that meant a lot to me as I am a leader out on the pitch. I prefer to lead by example, so it’s no problem.

“The gaffer was always planning to swap it about. He just wanted me in there for the first few games.

“Gals has had a go and there might be someone else who steps in.

“But, at the end of the day, Jacko is our leader and the one we look to. He is one of our most experienced players, so he is the real captain.

“Everyone else is just chipping in and helping out when he is not playing. It’s not like I was official vice-captain.”

Hutchison returned from suspension to help City knock his former club out of the FA Cup in “immaculate fashion” at Telford.

He said the result gave the team further confidence but insists they need to “keep their feet on the ground” as they prepare to face 16th-placed Boro.

“Nuneaton have got a lot of quality players, so I have no doubt they will turn it around anytime now, but I want to make sure it is not against us,” Hutchison added.

“We want to get three points and keep our run of clean sheets going.”