There have since been suggestions that senior figures within the FA hierarchy are unhappy with the choice; however chairman Lord Triesman has dismissed the reports.

"On behalf of everyone at The FA I'd like to offer congratulations to John Terry following Fabio Capello's decision to make him England's permanent captain," said Triesman.

"John obviously has tremendous leadership qualities and it is clear how much the captaincy means to him. He has our full support.

"I know that Fabio Capello thought long and hard before making this decision and it is clear that we have a number of leaders within the team.

"In Fabio, John Terry and vice-captain Rio Ferdinand, I'm confident we have the right combination to take us in a winning direction."