12 November,2011 02:11 AM IST | | AFP
Frank Lampard will captain England in their friendly international with Spain this weekend, manager Fabio Capello confirmed here yesterday. Chelsea midfielder Lampard, 33, will don the armband after Capello opted to rest skipper John Terry from the starting line-up for todays's sell-out game at Wembley.
Frank Lampard
It marks a sharp turnaround in fortunes for Lampard, who was dropped from England's recent games against Bulgaria and Montenegro, fuelling speculation his 89-cap international career was drawing to a close. However Lampard became the logical choice for Capello after his decision to omit Terry followed the absence through injury of Steven Gerrard and the out-of-form Rio Ferdinand.
Lampard said he had no problem assuming the armband ahead of team-mate and close friend Terry, who is embroiled in racism allegations yet remains part of the squad. "It is not difficult at all. It is a proud moment for me. I have no hold on the captain's armband, I have no wishes to try and get it," Lampard said.
"I'm honoured to have it for the second time. But John is the captain." Capello was adamant that Terry, who is at the centre of police and FA investigations, remained his permanent captain and would play against Sweden next week.
"He is the team leader," Capello told a press conference. "He will play against Sweden but tomorrow he will be on the bench. We have six substitutions and I will decide on them during the game."
