There has been a lot said about Fabio Capello’s decision to make Rio Ferdinand temporary captain of England in the press this week. Some questioned how appropriate it was to make Ferdinand captain when taking in to consideration his less than glowing past. Others recognised the change in Ferdinand and his commitment to being a good role model.
Before the game, The Guardian wrote in praise of Ferdinand, hailing him as the best in the country for his position. “There is a new maturity to Ferdinand, which has been reflected in his performances this season. He has been the Premier League’s best centre-half, a key member of a defence that has conceded only 15 league goals.” The Telegraph reflected on Ferdinand’s past, whilst hailing the change in him. “There was a time, about four years ago, when the thought of Ferdinand captaining England would have appeared absurd. He had, after all, just been given an eight-month ban from all football by the Football Association for failing to undergo a routine drugs test. His private life had long been of interest to the more salacious side of Fleet Street and to think of him as leadership material, even for his club, let alone his country, appeared not even a subject for conversation. When attempting to defend their player, Manchester United pointed out that Ferdinand was ‘forgetful’ and hinted that at times he was a bit dim. However, since his return, against Liverpool in September 2004, his maturity has been self-evident on the pitch and in the passion with which he has taken to campaigning for sporting opportunities and against knife crime in the estates where he grew up. His articulacy and honesty are refreshing in a world where so many comments are deliberately banal, although it is his performances on a football field that would have most interested Capello.”
After being named captain, Ferdinand was modest and self-deprecating, whilst genuinely happy and honoured. “It is a fantastic honour and an achievement in itself to be named England captain,” he said. “As a kid you grow up wanting to play for England and to lead your country and I now have been given the honour to fulfil these dreams, so definitely I am very happy.”
Now, the France vs England game was nothing to write home about, with neither side covering themselves in glory. The game was boring and a penalty to France, courtesy of Calamity James striking again, was all that separated the sides, after Anelka easily beat John Terry for pace, bursting in to the box.
Ferdinand walked out proudly and put in a solid performance. Before the game, The Independent
7 Comments
Loading more comments...
This comment and all replies have been deleted This comment has been deleted Undo delete