Nat Fyfe has acknowledged his All-Australian captaincy call-up ahead of Shannon Hurn will “grind the gears of West Coast fans”, saying he would have been happy to deputise for the Eagles skipper.

Fyfe became the first Fremantle player to earn the All-Australian leadership role, with Hurn named as vice-captain to complete a WA teams double last night.

The decision surprised some pundits, who believed Hurn - last year’s premiership skipper - was due after being overlooked in favour of Lance Franklin in the 2018 representative side.

MORE: WHY FYFE CALL WASN’T A HOWLER

CAPTAINCY CALL ‘DISRESPECTS’ FYFE, SAYS KING

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Speaking on ABC Radio Perth this morning, Fyfe said he could understand the point of view that Hurn was well-suited for the role.

“I think it’s quite a realistic opinion to hold, and I sit here as a captain of a team that I haven’t been a captain of a finals match (for) yet,” Fyfe said.

“Shannon Hurn captained a team to a grand final and did an unbelievable job, so I think it’s a realistic opinion and potentially my (All-Australian captaincy) credibility should be questioned.

“And if we were going out to play an actual fixture, I’d be more than happy to sit in the co-pilot seat behind Shannon Hurn.

“But I think we’re all debating to a granular level the importance of a role that really doesn’t mean much.

“I think it’s realistic and it’s going to grind the gears of West Coast fans, I understand that.”

Camera Icon Nat Fyfe and Michael Walters both made last night’s All-Australian side. Credit: AFL Photos

Fyfe’s All-Australian nod was his third amid a stellar season that sees him rated by bookmakers as second-favourite for this year’s Brownlow Medal.

“We’re the conquerors of the useless with this team and we’ll all get really upset. Our opinions should be heard and validated but in the end, I’m really humbled and grateful for the position,” he said.

“I’m sure Shannon is as well and good luck to him and his team in the finals.”