England manager Fabio Capello has effectively dismissed the notion that John Terry's place in the national squad is in danger, declaring the disgraced defender to be one of his "most important" players.
The Chelsea icon is captain of his country no longer, following the frenzy surrounding his affair with the former partner of Three Lions colleague Wayne Bridge.
Capello stripped Terry of the armband after showdown talks on Friday, but the 29-year-old's place in the team appears safe and sound with the World Cup looming.
"John Terry is still an important player for England," the Italian told the press after Sunday's Euro 2012 qualifying draw in Warsaw.
"He is one of the most important players for England. But it is all over, it is finished, it is time to move on."
Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand will succeed Terry as captain but has yet to be sworn in, and Capello made it clear that no further details would be forthcoming until he spoke with his squad.
He said: "I decided when I was England manager, I decided captain, vice-captain and third captain. You know everything, so why ask the same question?
"I want to speak about this question, but first I want to speak with Rio, the other players. We will speak about the new captain then. I want to speak with them before everything.
"Usually I prefer to speak with the players, not the journalists. I understand you, but you have to understand me. I decided everything after I spoke with John Terry, but I prefer to speak with the players first."
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