OFFICIAL: John Terry Dropped As England Captain; Rio Ferdinand To Take Over

John Terry has been stripped of the England captaincy after a showdown meeting with Fabio Capello.

The
Italian met Terry at Wembley on Friday and told the defender his role
as captain of the Three Lions was over, following relevations of an
alleged affair with an ex-girlfriend of former-Chelsea team-mate Wayne
Bridge.

"After much thought, I have made the decision that it
will be best for me to take the captaincy away from John Terry,"
Capello said via a statement on the FA's website.

"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."

Capello hinted that vice-captain Rio Ferdinand will step into the role, following a brief 12-minute meeting with Chelsea defender Terry.

“When
I chose John Terry as captain, I also selected a vice-captain and also
named a third choice," he added. "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.”http://www.goalstalk.com/post.forum?mode=newtopic&f=6

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti had previously said Terry's position as captain of the Blues would not be affected.