Shane steps up as high sheriff of Tranmere

Aug 2 2006 By Nick Hilton, Liverpool Echo

SHANE SHERRIFF says he is "surprised and honoured" to lead Tranmere Rovers into the new League One season this week as captain.

Manager Ronnie Moore has given the Australian defender the job of skippering a team made up largely of new arrivals at Prenton Park.

All nine of Moore's summer signings could make the starting line-up when Tranmere play host to Oldham Athletic on Saturday.

Sherriff, 23, boasts less experience of English league football than any of them, with just four games on loan at Rochdale to show from his four-year spell learning the game at Leeds United.

But Moore gave the young man the captain's arm band during the pre-season programme and reckons he could grow into the job

Sherriff said: "I was captain for the last four games of the pre-season and a little bit surprised by it to be honest.

"But I accept it. It is a great honour to come back here and start off with such a role.

"There are a few older players at the club and plenty of experience in the squad. I just hope I can do the job right and gain their respect."