Fabio Capello Gives Armband To Ferdinand

Fabio Capello has revealed that Rio Ferdinand with take over the captain's armband for England's Euro 2012 qualifier tomorrow night.

England are facing Montenegro in the third of the group matches. England currently top Group G on six points, with Montenegro in second also on six points.

Ferdinand was all set to lead England out at the World Cup but an injury in training saw him ruled out and Steven Gerrard took over the arm band.

It was uncertain whether Ferdiand would return as the captain with calls for Gerrard to remain in the position. But Capello has backed the Manchester United defender.

Speaking to The Sun the England manager said: "I spoke with Steven yesterday evening and explained why Rio would be the captain against Montengero.

"He understood the rule that he is the vice-captain and when the captain comes back the rules are the same. I told him he was a fantastic captain and that he would have to play tomorrow like a captain

"I decided when I started as England manager who will be the captain and the vice-captain. The players understand why Rio is the captain, and after him Steve Gerrard, and after Gerrard another one."

Ferdinand has been sidelined with a knee problem but the Italian believes that all those problems are not behind the defender.

"I have monitored him - he is fit completely. Also I watched Manchester United's game against Valencia. I think now he's 100 per cent fit.

"There is no problem about Rio's injuries. He's really good when he plays.

"He's really important for the other players, he speaks a lot during the game. It's really important for me, I prefer this kind of player on the pitch."

FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw