Petrescu: John Terry is the best leader for England

In the Blue corner is John Terry, national skipper under Steve McClaren but yet to be given the armband by Fabio Capello.

Fighting for the Reds cause will be Rio Ferdinand, who was named captain for the friendly against France last month.

Whoever comes out on top tomorrow, though, Dan Petrescu is in no doubt who should win the England battle. And although the former Chelsea defender goes for Terry, his decision has nothing to do with club loyalty.

"John is still the best England captain available," said the former Romanian international. "He is that good a leader and was born to be captain. Rio is a tremendous player in defence as well and did a good job when he had the armband, but John has the edge.

"He is not just a good defender, he has a way of bringing the whole squad together and leading by example. England miss him when he is not there. John has had a lot of injuries, but they come to players who work hard and he gives it his all."

During his five years at the Bridge, Petrescu played in one of the most exciting Chelsea teams ever, boasting talents such as Gianfranco Zola, Ruud Gullit, Gianluca Vialli, Roberto Di Matteo and Marcel Desailly. But he would love the current side to grind out a win against Manchester United and go on to win the title.

"We were always playing attacking football and the fans loved us for it," said the 40-year-old. "I don't remember our team winning games 1-0 without playing well as this Chelsea side do.

"But that is the missing ingredient we lacked and Chelsea supporters should remember that. We played offensively all the time and, while this team may not play the same way, if they win the Champions or Premier League, I'm sure the fans will be very happy.

"If they don't win anything that will be the time for the fans to say something, but if they do, they will forget everything and be happy." Petrescu, whose managerial career is progressing at Romanian club side Unirea, is confident Chelsea will be in the Champions League Final in May.

He said: "I think Chelsea will play Barcelona in the final and will get revenge for when my team lost in the quarter-final at the Nou Camp in extra-time."

Dan Petrescu will be appearing as the latest 'Star on a Stool' at Stamford Bridge on Thursday 15 May. For more information or to reserve your ticket, e-mail specialevents@chelseafc.com or call 020 7957 8267.