THE Bermuda national team's captain's armband is still up for grabs with new coach Keith Tucker on the lookout for his on-field 'general'.

A clutch of candidates have caught Tucker's eye during training as they prepare for next week's two international friendlies against St. Kitts and Nevis at the National Sports Centre.

The former Howard University coach said although it was not a pressing concern for him he had spotted a few natural leaders in the dressing room.

"I'm looking to see who's the leader and who's going to take the responsibility of making sure whatever I want is happening on the field," said Tucker. "There are a couple of guys at training who are standing out in terms of their leadership qualities, but I'm not worrying about it just yet."

With John Barry Nusum (the last player to perform captain's duty in a competitive international) unavailable Tucker could took towards Bermuda Hogges' skipper Kwame Steede while Stephen Astwood could also come into the reckoning.

Philadelphia Kixx star Nusum has been ruled out of both matches along with New England Revolution's Khano Smith with both players nursing knee injuries. Their absence will allow Tucker to run the rule over other players challenging for his 2010 World Cup qualifying squad.

Ipswich Town academy youngster Reggie Thompson-Lambe could be available.

"Neither Khano Smith or John Barry Nusum will play against St. Kitts and Nevis as they both have slight knee injuries and no-one wants to take a chance," Tucker said. "It will give us a chance to see some other guys, but we're still looking forward to seeing Khano and John in action for us.

"Everything's going really well and we're still looking for a few more guys to come out (to training) as well as some more overseas college players to return."

Among those players who have impressed Tucker so far have been Village's Sammy DeGraff and PHC's new boy Jeff Frankin, while he has also spoken of his admiration of Hogges' franchise pair Astwood and Damon Ming.

"I've been impressed by a number of guys and want to find out what each player has to offer the team," said Tucker. "We've got a great striker, two good wingers and there are a couple of midfielders who are really shaping up well.

"In defence Omar (Shakir) has been impressive so we've got a solid nucleus and the other guys are raising their game every night. I've heard they're used to playing a little bit quicker in the domestic league and I want them to slow down and use their brains.

"Everything's coming together and I've been delighted with the response.

"I've even had a few grandmothers telling me they're going to come and support the team, which is always a good sign! It should be a good atmosphere at the NSC and I'm very exciting about it all."

Bermuda take on St. Kitts and Nevis on December 14 and 16 at the National Sports Centre.