Carsley joined Birmingham in June after leaving Everton, but he has already skippered Alex McLeish's side in pre-season.

And McLeish has confirmed that, with Johnson set to have surgery on his back injury, Carsley will be handed the captain's armband when the Blues kick-off their Championship campaign at home to Sheffield United on 9th August.

"Carsley will start the season as captain," McLeish told the Birmingham Mail.

"Carsley has come in and I think he has got terrific leadership qualities, he has got the experience as well. He's the type of guy who will lead with relish."

And McLeish expects Johnson to be sidelined for up to eight weeks as he prepares to go under the knife.

"It's come to a stage for Jonty where he's got to get surgery," McLeish added.

"I think he has resisted it over the last couple of years or so, but the wear and tear has been such that this is the best course for him.

"I hate to put times on injuries, but I would say it's not going to be any less than two months."