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 Last one added about 1 year ago — Leave a Comment
Andrew McNair about 1 year ago
I think they are in very poor taste. These comments shine through when he plays. He may actually have lost the plot!
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John Houmes about 1 year ago
Terry has a history of making comments to make sure he is in control. When rumors of a Ronaldinho transfer to Chelsea were high last summer, Terry made sure that Ronny knew if he came, he'd have to play defense. Ronaldinho wasn't even at Chelsea...nothing official had happened...and Terry is making sure Ronaldinho knew who was boss-man at Chelsea.
I think the comments re: Rio were in poor taste and unnecessary. If you're the Captain, show it on the pitch, not with manipulative comments to the press.
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Simon Martin about 1 year ago
Disgraceful. John Terry has already blotted his copybook with me over his behaviour on the pitch this season - and his childish attitude here does not enamour him to me.
It shows how petty and self-centred footballers have become nowadays. At least of Beckham, you could never say that now.
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Dildeep Singh about 1 year ago
I think your completely wrong in saying that John Terry ditched England when they needed him most. If you read comments he made during the time. He trained and almost begged McClaren to put him in the squad. McClaren had refused. I don't know what you want Terry to do, take the ball up the pitch and score goals for England. That isn't his style of play, nor is it Ferdinand's. Both individuals lead the team in their competitive play.
If managers play mind games with other managers before tactical games, why can't players do same thing. You guys are blowing this way out of proportion.
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Andrew McNair about 1 year ago
He is creating huge divisions! When managers play mind games it creates a gulf between the teams full of anger and resentment. Why would you want that between your national centre back pairing?
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Salomon Gonzales about 1 year ago
I kinda agree this thing is blown out of proportion. I dont think JT in any way belittled Rio, he merely pointed out that he think he's best at what he does. Now that might smell of sheer arrogance but it doesnt mean Rio isn't going to be a good captain, it just means JT thinks he's the best and you know what, i think he's right. JT is the best suitable captain for England right now. Not taking away anything for Gerrard, Rio or Becks as they're all great in their own right but JT surpasses them all(with the exception of Gerrard) when it comes to captaincy...
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Simon Martin about 1 year ago
Totally agree with you Andrew, and it by no means helps Capello in his search for a useable England team never mind a good one!
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