Vidic Relishing Skipper Role

Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic is enjoying the responsibility of wearing the captain's armband at Old Trafford.

The Serbian, who has recently penned a new four-year contract with the Red Devils, has replaced Patrice Evra as manager Sir Alex Ferguson's favoured choice of skipper in the sustained absence of Rio Ferdinand and Gary Neville.

Vidic lifted his first trophy as captain last month when United saw off Chelsea in the Community Shield and the 29-year-old retained the post on Saturday, even though Ryan Giggs started the home triumph over West Ham.

The stopper, who arrived in Manchester from Spartak Moscow in a £7million switch four-and-a-half years ago, is relishing the experience of leading the side.

"It is a big achievement for me," said Vidic. "No-one is going to say they don't want to be the captain of Manchester United and I am very happy with it.

"It is a major responsibility but I have always liked responsibility.

"I am not a player who shies away from it. Nothing has really changed in that respect."

While Vidic is happy in his new role, he feels the true leaders at Old Trafford are veteran players such as Giggs, Neville and Paul Scholes, who are approaching two decades of service, and regular captain Ferdinand.

"We all know the captains of the team are Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Rio Ferdinand," he said.

"They are the real leaders. The other players follow how they do things.

"They don't have to do anything special. They just have to be themselves to be an example for the rest of the players.

"When they are not on the pitch, I just try to do my best and use the experience I have gained in the years I have played for Manchester United."