COVENTRY City midfielder Lee Carsley believes Ben Turner could one day follow in his footsteps and lead the Sky Blues out as captain.

Turner played at the heart of City's defence on in Saturday's season oener at home to Portsmouth, alongside 18-year-old Nathan Cameron.

And after a commanding performance helped the Sky Blues to a 2-0 triumph over last season's FA Cup finalists, Carsley feels there is still more to come from the 21-year-old.

"I think they both did really well," said the former Birmingham City and Everton midfielder.

"Nathan is a good player, he's quick and he's strong and he's got a good future ahead of him.

"Ben was excellent as well but he needs to realise that he is not a kid anymore.

"He's a good defender and he could potentially captain Coventry City for years to come. All the qualities are there."

Carsley insists that the Sky Blues must build on Saturday's victory as the games come thick and fast for City.

"It's a good start, we've put a lot of work in on the training ground and it is hopefully the beginning of something big," he said.

"But we know there is a long way to go, so we can't get too carried away."

The Sky Blues open their League Cup campaign at Morecambe tonight before a trip to Watford next Saturday.

"The manager has made it clear it's a long season and he wants to do well in the cups as well, so potentially we have over 50 games to come," added Carsley.

"There are very few players here who will play 50 games this season. Everyone must be ready to step in."

The 36-year-old is also aware that the fans could play key role this season.

He said: "At home, Coventry fans are very good and if they see that you are giving 100 per cent they get fully behind you.

"I think they feel they have been let down by the players in the past and perhaps they have.

"But the more fans come and watch us, the more they will buy into what we are trying to do and if we can get as many fans as possible behind us, this could be the start of something."