FINALLY, England coach Fabio Capello has named John Terry as the national team’s new permanent captain. Terry had been vying with central defensive partner Rio Ferdinand for the role, with Capello opting to keep faith with the Chelsea defender.

During Steve McClaren’s ill-fated stint in charge of England, Terry was captain after replacing David Beckham in the job following the 2006 World Cup. Since succeeding McClaren as coach, though, Capello has been rotating the armband during his four friendlies at the helm.

Steven Gerrard had been skipper in Capello’s opening match against Switzerland before Ferdinand led the team out against France.Terry was given his chance to impress against the United States at the end of last season before Beckham took on the role against Trinidad & Tobago.

However, Terry and Ferdinand had always been regarded as front-runners for the position, with the Manchester United defender reportedly the favourite.Ferdinand, though, will be Terry’s vice-captain after Capello confirmed his decision ahead of Wednesday’s friendly against Czech Republic at Wembley.