Terry loses the England captaincy

John Terry overlooks the shoulder of England coach Fabio Capello in this file photo.

John Terry has been stripped of the England captaincy by coach Fabio Capello following a media storm over his private life. "After much thought, I have made the decision that it will be best for me to take the captaincy away from John Terry," said Capello. "As a captain with the team, John Terry has displayed extremely positive behaviour. However, I have to take into account other considerations and what is best for all of the England squad. "What is best for all of the England team has inspired my choice. John Terry was notified first. When I chose John Terry as captain, I also selected a vice-captain and also named a third choice. There is no reason to change this decision.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the FA, particularly Lord David Triesman and Ian Watmore for allowing me to make this decision in my own time and in the best interest of the team." The news comes a week after the married Chelsea defender lost a High Court battle to ban publication of details of an alleged relationship with England teammate Wayne Bridge's former girlfriend. The demotion of Terry means Rio Ferdinand, as vice captain, is in pole position to become captain.

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