Chelsea defender John Terry has been stripped of the England captaincy following allegations over his private life, the Football Association announced on Friday. "After much thought, I have made the decision that it will be best for me to take the captaincy away from John Terry," England coach Fabio Capello said in a statement on thefa.com. "As a captain with the team, John Terry has displayed extremely positive behaviour. However, I have to take into account other considerations and what is best for all of the England squad." Terry's alleged relationship with the ex-girlfriend of England teammate Wayne Bridge has been grabbing headlines for the past week. His future as the England captain was consequently thrown into doubt, prompting Capello to hold talks with him at Wembley on Friday. "What is best for all of the England team has inspired my choice," the Italian tactician, who is consistently praised for the discipline he instills into the team, added. Terry has been England's skipper since August 2008. Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand is a frontrunner to become the new captain, BBC Sport said. England next face African champions Egypt at Wembley on March third.
