Capello - A tough choice

England boss hails Terry and Ferdinand

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 19th August 2008

Fabio Capello England manager

Capello: Praise for Terry

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Fabio Capello paid tribute to John Terry after naming the Chelsea defender as his permanent captain but admitted it had been a difficult decision.

Terry, Steven Gerrard, Rio Ferdinand and David Beckham have all taken turns in the role since Capello was appointed as England manager.

The Italian recently announced that he had narrowed his search down to two players, with Terry and Ferdinand under consideration.

Capello has now explained that the force of Terry's personality was the key factor, although he believes Ferdinand will still have a vital part to play in his new role as vice-captain.

"I remembered that when John and Rio were captain they played very well," Capello said on Sky Sports News.

"It was not easy for me to choose the captain, they are very good players.

"I think his big personality is the reason I have chosen John, but also Rio is very important for the team in his position as vice-captain.

"I think the captain is very important because he is the driver of the team."

Important

Capello will take charge of his fifth friendly when England take on Czech Republic on Wednesday, before the World Cup qualifiers kick off next month.

Capello insists he is ready for the competitive action to begin, and has called on his players to bounce back from the disappointment of missing out on Euro 2008.

He said: "The season has just started for us. For the national team it is a very important season.

"We have decided the captain, we have decided on a lot of the players in the squad, and now we have to play every game like a final.

"I know the players better because we have played four friendly games."