Terry: I Want The Armband

The Wembley clash on August 20 will mark the unveiling of Fabio Capello's new skipper, as the Italian coach has yet to permanently assign the role since taking the reins from Steve McClaren in December.

Terry, Rio Ferdinand, Steven Gerrard and David Beckham have all been given an opportunity to stake their claim, while Aston Villa want-away Gareth Barry was also thought to be in the frame at one point.

However, Ferdinand has now emerged as the favourite to take the armband, largely due to his sensational form with Manchester United last season.

But Terry is determined to reclaim the position he held during Beckham's post-World Cup exile, although he is certain that whoever is awarded the honour will do a fine job.

The 27-year-old told The Sun: “Of course I want the England captaincy — I’d be mad to sit here and say no. I’ve been lucky to get the armband in the past and those memories will stay with me for ever.

“I’m sure whoever Mr Capello announces as the captain will have the best day of his life next week — whether it be myself, Rio, Stevie G or Lamps. The main thing is that England as a team move forward and the captain helps drag them together.

“Maybe I do deserve another chance at the captaincy, but maybe Rio does, maybe Stevie G does, maybe Lamps does. We’re all at top clubs, playing at the top level, and all feel deep down we deserve the armband.

“But it’s one man making the big decision. Having seen the players around the training ground he knows what he’s going to get and whoever he chooses I’ll fully respect.

“If it’s not me I’ll walk up to the person, shake their hand and wish them well.”