John Terry named new England captain

Chelsea skipper John Terry has been named as the new captain of the England football team.

The 25-year-old central defender will take over from former captain David Beckham, who stepped down after England were knocked out of the World Cup quarter-finals by Portugal.

Terry's first match as team captain will be on August 16, when England play a friendly match against Greece at Old Trafford.

New England coach, Steve McClaren - who replaced Sven-Goran Eriksson after the World Cup - said: "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 in 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."

Commenting on the decision, Terry said: "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."

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said that Terry deserved the position. He said: "England deserves a captain like him. He loves to work, loves to win, loves to make people happy and confident."

Chelsea Chief Executive Peter Kenyon said: "Everybody at Chelsea is absolutely delighted for John and we all extend our congratulations. John is arguably the greatest captain in Chelsea\s history already and I am certain he will do a fantastic job for England."

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard was named as vice-captain. McClaren described Gerrard as "an outstanding player and another superb club skipper who also leads by example".

Gerrard said: "I'm pleased to have been appointed vice-captain by Steve McClaren today. I am grateful that Steve took the time to call me and inform me of his decision."

He also paid tribute to John Terry. He said: "I would like to congratulate John on being appointed England captain. I'm sure he'll do a great job. He's a tremendous leader for Chelsea and has all the qualities required to do the role.

"There are a number of captains in the England squad and I know we will all be giving 100% support to Steve and John."

(KMcA)