Fabio Capello has announced that Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard will skipper England for the friendly against Denmark on Wednesday. The 32 year old takes over from regular captain Rio Ferdinand and vice-captain Steven Gerrard, who withdrew through injury.

England boss Fabio Capello also said that Arsenal's Jack Wilshere would make his full debut alongside Lampard.

"I am very proud, it is quite unexpected," stated Lampard, who will captain England for the first time.

"I've been in the squad for quite a long time now and I feel like one of the old stagers. It will be one of the proudest moments of my career to lead out the boys.

"I'll try and do what I do for Chelsea. I'm not going to change just because of the armband. The team will always need leaders and I will try and do my usual job but try and have an influence on the team."

Lampard has had an injury-hit season for Chelsea and has not played in an international match since the friendly against Hungary in August but Capello sees this as an advantage.

"I spoke with him about injuries that he has suffered and I have been monitoring the last five games he has played. He has improved a lot," said Capello.

"I watched him against Liverpool and he played a really good game. Probably he is fresher than the other players."