EFE SODJE was today stripped of the Town captaincy.
Manager Peter Jackson has lost patience as the 32-year-old starts a four-match ban against Brentford on Sunday (3.00).
It's his second suspension of the season for elbowing an opponent and Jackson is adamant he wants a better example set.
Sodje has also been fined the maximum possible under the circumstances, a week-and-a-half's wages.
Town will be led out by a new skipper against the Bees, although Jackson is keeping Sodje's successor under wraps until then.
"Efe has let himself down, his teammates down and the fans down and we can't keep going on and on," said Jackson, who revealed Sodje's brother, Akpo, has pulled a thigh muscle in training and will be out for two weeks.
"We have a lot of young players in the squad who need a captain to lead by example but, by getting sent-off twice like he has, Efe hasn't done that.
"He has already sat out three games this season and now he's facing another four on the sidelines, all through stupidity.
"Hopefully, by me taking this action, he will do better in future and play like the international footballer we know he is."
Jackson, who was shortlisted for the Manager of the Month Award, told Sodje the news yesterday.
"I advised him of the fine and that I was taking away the captaincy," added Jackson. "How did he take it? He apologised and walked out."
Sodje will be one of at least two changes in the starting line-up, with Paul Rachubka returning in goal for Phil Senior and Steve Yates possibly edging John McCombe at centre-back.
"Brentford are a strong and physical side with two quick frontment, so they like to get the ball forward quickly and we'll need to be on our toes," said Jackson.
"We are very determined to win, though. I know we've had odd setbacks and need to be more consistent, but to come from where we were last year to be in this position now is fantastic.
"I'm really proud of the lads and of all the staff here and, with the fans behind us, we'll be going all out for another home win."
