Dunn, 28, will be Ryan Nelsen's deputy at Ewood Park and should lead the team against NAC Breda in Saturday's friendly while the regular captain undertakes international duty with New Zealand.

Dunn told the club's official website: "If Nelly is missing then I'll be able to captain the team which will be great. I'm pleased with it."

local lad

The former England international returned to Blackburn in January 2007 after a spell at Birmingham City, and new manager Ince has been impressed with his recent attitude.

Ince said: "Since I've come in he's been an excellent example, not just to the young lads but to everybody else. Being a local lad, I think it's important, and he's got leadership qualities.

"On the field he's a fantastic player, he can make things happen. He's got responsibilities now both on and off the pitch, and I just thought it was the right idea."

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