England News

• Nickname:Three Lions
• Founded: 1872
• Manager:Roy Hodgson

• Ground:Wembley Stadium
• Capacity:90000

Terry named England captain

13 Aug 2006 - 11:02:42

Click To Enlarge

Chelsea defender John Terry has been named as the new England captain, with Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard appointed vice-captain.

One of Steve McClaren's first tasks as England head coach was to decide who to hand the armband to after David Beckham relinquished the captaincy following the team's disappointing World Cup campaign.

Terry and Gerrard were both strong candidates for the job, but McClaren opted for the commanding defender who has led Chelsea to back-to-back Premiership titles over the midfielder who inspired Liverpool's 2005 Champions League triumph.

"Choosing a captain is one of the most important decisions a coach has to make," McClaren explained in a statement issued via the FA's official website.

"I'm certain I've got the right man in John Terry. I'm convinced he will prove to be one of the best captains England has ever had.

"John has all the attributes an international captain needs: leadership, authority, courage, ability, tactical awareness and a total refusal to accept second-best. He has been an inspiration for Chelsea and is at his best in adversity.

"Over the five years I've been involved with the England coaching set-up I've seen first hand the respect that John has among his fellow players. There are a number of strong leaders in the squad and he will not lack support on and off the pitch.

"Steven Gerrard was a strong candidate for the captaincy and he will be my vice-captain. He is an outstanding player and another superb club skipper who also leads by example."

Terry, who has won 29 international caps, added: "It is the ultimate honour to be the captain of your country and I am very proud to be given this great opportunity.

"It is an incredible challenge and one I am looking forward to very much."

The 25-year-old's reign as captain gets underway with a friendly against Greece at Old Trafford next week.