In the absence of Matthew Boyd, Western Bulldogs’ veteran Robert Murphy will assume the captain’s honours against Brisbane Lions in Saturday’s season opener at Etihad Stadium.

Senior Coach Brendan McCartney today confirmed the exciting playmaker would be given the call up for the round one clash, after Boyd was ruled out with a calf injury.

McCartney identified Murphy as one of six senior players who he felt could undertake the added responsibility.

“Robert Murphy will be captain this week – and then we may have Robert next week and we may offer it to someone else,” McCartney said.

“We probably have six great Western Bulldogs people who can all do the role.

“Part of the captain’s role is the toss the coin but once the game starts you need six to 10 leaders at least.”

Boyd is expected to miss two or three weeks of the home and away season after enduring what was later determined as a calf strain against Richmond last fortnight.