However, the tough on-baller is only concerned about backing new skipper Andrew Swallow after being appointed one of his right-hand men yesterday.

Ziebell, who along with Drew Petrie will vice-captain the Kangaroos this season, said while he wouldn’t knock back the chance to lead the Roos in the future, his only concern for now was supporting new captain Swallow, who was unveiled as the club’s successor to Brent Harvey at Arden Street yesterday.

“Obviously it’s something I wouldn’t knock back if it came up in the future but as I said that’s the future and right now all myself and the other players are worried about is backing Andrew as captain of the North Melbourne footy club,” Ziebell said.

“It’s a fantastic decision and the decision that is the best fit for the club right now,” he said.

“He’s a great leader at the club and he’s the right man going forward and myself and the rest of the playing group will back him all the way.”

Although speculation was rife that the modest 20-year-old was a leading contender for the top job at Arden Street, Ziebell said he did not expect to become the fourth youngest captain in AFL/VFL history.

Melbourne’s Jack Trengove, also 20, became the youngest captain in league history yesterday after being appointed co-captain of the Demons alongside Jack Grimes.

“I didn’t have any expectations,” Ziebell said.

“There was plenty of speculation going around but I wasn’t taking too much notice of that.

“I listen to those inside the club and to what those people have to say.

“That’s what I value.

“To be given the vice- captaincy of the North Melbourne footy club is something that is a really big privilege and honour.

“It’s a special feeling.”

The former No. 9 draft pick, who has broken his right leg twice since being drafted in 2008, said his appointment as vice-captain was undoubtedly the highlight of his short career to date.