With Shay Given and Joey Barton (the other two in the running to be long-term skipper) both injured, the Cameroon international was always going to get the armband on Saturday.
Since he arrived at the club from Stamford Bridge this summer, the experienced African has impressed everyone. And with Barton fit, Alan Smith snapping at defender's heels, and Enrique 'The Bull' taking no prisoners ... Sam is building a side on granite.
Geremi Gets The Nod
Geremi, of the players available, seems be the obvious candidate to succeed Scott Parker following the Londoner's £7m move to West Ham.
Shay Given, Nicky Butt, Joey Barton and Steven Taylor have all been considered in recent weeks.
Geremi, David Rozehnal, Mark Viduka and Alan Smith are all expected to make their first Premier League appearances for the club.
With Barton injured, the other new signings Jose Enrique and Claudio Caçapa will be allowed additional time to improve their fitness following their respective arrivals from Villarreal and Lyon.
Allerdyce: "It's all about the focus and the professionalism I have. That's the most important thing. I have to put whatever feelings I have to one side and make sure I'm focused for the lads.
"Five consecutive defeats have got to end this weekend if we're going to achieve more than we have over the last two or three years. It could be as big a result as we get all season if we can win. It would be a major start to the season."