Fabio Capello has explained why he had to strip John Terry of the England captaincy after stories about his private life emerged.
England’s Italian coach, who named Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand as his new skipper, demoted the 29-year-old Chelsea captain after claims he had an affair with the ex-girlfriend of England team-mate Wayne Bridge.
Capello told La Stampa: “I had no other alternative – he knows that for me values come before everything.
“I was in Italy and I had a telephone call where I was told everything that had happened.
“I thought about it and then I called John and we spoke. He is an adult and a serious person.”
On his return to England, Capello summoned Terry where he broke the news to him.
“We looked each other in the eyes,” he said.
“I told him that the captain has to be an example for everyone. I cannot let you keep the armband.”
When asked if he feared losing Terry, Capello replied: “No.”
He added: “It’s one of those things that can happen in life.”
“Terry is one of those that makes a difference, he is a true leader.”
