Rio's my man: As Terry and Ferdinand prepare to battle it out for the Premier League, Capello drops a hint

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It adds a fascinating sub-plot to today's title showdown at Stamford Bridge, which will be watched by Capello.

Ferdinand: Favourite to be England captain

The Italian was delighted by Ferdinand's response to being made captain for last month's friendly against France in Paris, believing he inspired his team-mates both with his performance and all-round conduct.

Capello also believes giving him the armband has raised Ferdinand's game to new levels and considers him to be perhaps the finest centre half in the world.

He fears taking the captaincy off him might harm the England team, though Terry could yet get a chance to stake his claim for the job in the friendlies against the USA and Trinidad & Tobago.

His personal duel with Terry gives extra spice to this lunchtime's clash. Chelsea manager Avram Grant claimed Manchester United would blow their chance of winning a 10th Barclays Premier League title if they lose.

He said: "You saw what happened last week when United drew at Blackburn. It's not easy to play under this pressure. They have drawn twice in the last three games because we put pressure on them."

Ferguson admitted it was "the biggest game of the season" and complained Chelsea had been handed "a big advantage" after having an extra day of rest following the teams' Champions League semi-finals.

"We are suffering because of that. Chelsea have had four days' rest and we have had two-and-a-half. That day makes a hell of a difference.

"But we have to get on with it because there's nothing we can do about it. If you shake hands with the devil you can't complain.

"Football does deals with television and the game is subject to television's control nowadays."

Chelsea plan a minute's silence in honour of Frank Lampard's mother Pat, who died on Thursday, and the players from both teams will wear black armbands.