WATFORD (England), Aug 19: John Terry of Chelsea was named as England’s permanent captain by coach Fabio Capello at a news conference on Tuesday.

Terry, 27, was given the job he held under former coach Steve McClaren and will lead the team out against Czech Republic in Wednesday’s friendly at Wembley when he wins his 45th cap.

“It means the world to me to retain the armband,” said Terry who was told by Italian Capello that he would be captain after England’s training session on Tuesday morning.

Manchester United’s Rio Ferdinand, who was in the running to take over as skipper, has been appointed vice-captain.

Capello said: “John’s big personality is why I chose him but Rio is also important for the team which is why I made him vice-captain.”

Terry made his England debut as a substitute in a friendly against Serbia & Montenegro in June 2003, establishing himself in the side the following season.

Terry has scored four goals for his country, including England’s first at the rebuilt Wembley Stadium against Brazil in June last year.—Reuters