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Last updated at 22:27pm on 26.03.08John Terry has reacted like an English gentleman to the news that he has been overlooked by Fabio Capello as national team captain.
The Chelsea defender, who was England's on-field lieutenant during Steve McClaren's disastrous regime, pulled aside newly installed captain Rio Ferdinand in the hours before tonight's friendly in France to congratulate him on his appointment.
Although the head coach's decision was a bitter pill to swallow, Terry, who is sweating over his place in the starting XI due to Jonathan Woodgate's recent good form, has taken the news with good grace.
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Gracious in defeat: John Terry has congratulated his rival for the England captaincy
The 27-year-old reportedly told Ferdinand that he knew exactly what it feels like to lead out your country and that it is the proudest experience he will ever have.
Terry also stressed that his Manchester United rival should enjoy the occasion.
p>It is widely believed that Terry is the victim of Capello's hard-line approach to managing England.
The Chelsea skipper was criticised for getting involved in the Ashley Cole bust-up during Chelsea's 4-4 draw at White Hart Lane last week — though it later became clear that, in fact, he had been trying to separate warring players.
However, Sportsmail understands that a picture of Terry's £150,000 Bentley parked in a disabled bay in Esher, Surrey, last week counted against him in the final reckoning.
Capello said: "A captain must be an example to follow in training and a leader during the game. I would also hope he would be an example, a role model, outside the game and in life.
"That's very important. Not just for the England captain, but for everything we, as sportsmen, show youngsters. I wasn't put under any pressure (by the FA) and all the decisions I have made — technical or otherwise — have been my own decisions.
"We need to be role models when we play for England and when we play for our clubs. Part of this involves fair play and respect towards the referee and the public who come to see the games. In that respect, we need to get back something we may be losing a bit. They are my choices. I've got my own eyes, I can see things and I can understand things for myself.
"I will have a permanent captain from August 20. Until then, John Terry has a chance to become England captain."
Follow England's match with France live on Sportsmail online. Kick-off is 8pm
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