Despite the poor result, it is clear that this was a positive move from the manager.
Jewell said: "I thought it was time Bainesy stepped up to the plate – it was a pat on the back for him.
"The lad has played a lot of games, is progressing well, and I want him to go even further with us.
"Making him captain might give him even more confidence as he has got
|
With the absence of Arjan De Zeeuw, it was expected that club captain Matt Jackson would be given the duty, but the role was awarded to Baines.
Jackson commented: "Bainesy has all the makings of a good captain, he is going to be a superstar.
"Up to now, his play has been excellent and he is one of the best left-backs in the country. He knows the game very well, shows a great level of consistency, and he can definitely go on to play for the full England side.
"He's a quiet lad, but once he starts to impose himself and realise how good he is, he has every chance.
"England have Ashley Cole and Wayne Bridge, but after them there aren't too many good left-backs, certainly not with Bainesy's consistency.
"With the quality of his left foot, he can be a really good England prospect.
"He has played very well at Under-21 level already, and was the best player in their recent game at Ipswich.
"I really do think he has the understanding of the game, a quality left foot and the pace you need to be a top player in the Premiership.
"It has good for him to have been the skipper, it will have given him a little bit more experience."
Meanwhile there is positive news on the injury front with both Henri Camara and Svetoslav Todorov due back for the visit of Watford on Saturday.