John Terry said he will gracefully concede the England captaincy to David Beckham if it helps the national team improve under the new manager, Fabio Capello.

The Italian will take charge of his first match when England play Switzerland at Wembley next month and one of his first decisions will be whether to retain Terry as the captain, or return the leadership to Beckham, should he be selected to win his 100th cap.

And the Chelsea star, who will have a scan on the foot injury that has kept him on the sidelines for the past month, said: "It would be great for David's family for him to have the armband, that would top the night off for him. He is a great player and a great lad to have around the place. We hope that not only does he play his hundred but many more after that.

"But it does not matter who is captain. It is a decision I will fully respect whatever happens. The most important thing is making England great again. If we can get back to winning ways it will make everyone happy."