BLACKBURN defender Andre Ooijer faces a race against time to be fit for tonight's UEFA Cup tie.
The Dutchman is rated only 50-50 after picking up a knock in Sunday's draw with Spurs.
However, if he is passed fit, Ooijer looks set to retain the captaincy against Feyenoord in the UEFA Cup tonight after a ringing endorsement from manager Mark Hughes.
He believes the 32-year-old, who skippered his country against England last week, has all the skills needed for the role.
Ooijer wore the armband on Sunday, after Lucas Neill was ruled out with a hamstring injury.
Promotion has been swift following his summer arrival after nine seasons with PSV Eindhoven, but Hughes said: "Andre has captained his country and is an important member of our squad.
"He has a big influence on the field and off it. Andre displays the right qualities you need from a captain.
"He has settled in quickly and will become more influential as the season progresses.
"Andre has a lot of insight into the game and a lot of knowledge, and that experience will be vital for us."
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