Capello Puts His Faith in Captain Terry

John Terry has been named captain of England, with Fabio Capello preferring to keep faith with the Chelsea defender in preference to Rio Ferdinand, who has been appointed vice-captain.

Terry had captained the side during the Steve McClaren era after David Beckham quit the role after the 2006 World Cup. But his position was cast into doubt when Capello took charge and delayed naming his on-field leader.Steven Gerrard, Ferdinand and Beckham - as well as Terry - were all given one game each by Capello to demonstrate their credentials. Ferdinand appeared to be the favorite but Capello has decided to persevere with Terry, who scored when he led the side in the friendly victory against the United States at Wembley in May.

Capello's decision will be a blow to Ferdinand. The 29-year-old Manchester United defender, who served an eight-match ban for failing to attend a drugs test at Manchester United's training ground in 2004, has steadily put his off-field problems behind him and looked well placed to be named skipper. But Capello has again shown his ability for springing surprises by preferring Terry.

Capello introduced Terry as his permanent captain today ahead of tomorrow's friendly against the Czech Republic at Wembley and the Chelsea skipper admitted he had been nervous before he was told of the coach's decision. "It was about an hour ago, just after training. The manager called the whole squad together and told us as a whole," Terry said. "For me to get it above the likes of him [Ferdinand] and the other players in the squad is a great honor."