John Terry England Captain: Why This Should Be the End

Amid John Terry's race row troubles, the Football Association are currently discussing the Chelsea captain's role as captain of England.

This report comes just a day after Reading striker and Kick it Out (a group advocating against racism in football) campaigner Jason Roberts stated that Terry's captaincy would make the England dressing room "toxic."

Such worries are, of course, paramount to the Football Association given the nation's upcoming appearance in the European Championships this summer.

All of this stems from an altercation between Terry and QPR defender Anton Ferdinand in a match this past October.  Ferdinand claims that Terry made racial remarks toward him, a claim that police investigated and for which Terry will stand trial in July.

Terry has steadfastly denied the charges against him, but the right thing to do seems clear: he must resign his captaincy.

Now, don't get me wrong: in no way am I assuming Terry is guilty or that he would admit his guilt by resigning.  What I am saying is that it would be in the best interest of the nation if he were to simply step aside.

After all, with Anton's brother, Rio Ferdinand, almost certainly pairing with Terry at centre-back, it is already a highly combustible situation; defusing it is the only way to sustain England's cup hopes.

We should all save judgment on Terry until after we hear the whole facts of the case against him; resigning his captaincy should not be akin to an admission of guilt.

However unfair it may be (if he is innocent, that is), there's only one thing Terry can do to prove he is a true captain of England.

Give it up, John.