Tribune News Services
LONDON -- John Terry was dropped as England's soccer captain by coach Fabio Capello on Friday, a week after allegations became public that the defender had an affair with the former girlfriend of teammate Wayne Bridge.
Rio Ferdinand will take over as captain as England prepares for its World Cup opener against the United States on June 12. Ferdinand, who had been vice captain, has been injured for much of this season.
Capello told Terry of the decision in a brief meeting at Wembley Stadium, a week after the married Chelsea star lost a High Court battle to ban publication of details of an alleged relationship with Vanessa Perroncel, the mother of Bridge's child.
"After much thought, I have made the decision that it will be best for me to take the captaincy away from John Terry," Capello said in a statement. "As a captain with the team, John Terry has displayed extremely positive behavior. However, I have to take into account other considerations and what is best for all of the England squad. What is best for all of the England team has inspired my choice."
The 29-year-old Terry had been appointed captain by Capello in August 2008. Given the prominence of soccer in England, the closest equivalent in the United States would involve the Olympic basketball team.
"I fully respect Fabio Capello's decision," said Terry, who remains as Chelsea's captain. "I will continue to give everything for England."
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