Capello names Terry in squad

John Terry

Published: 11:18pm, 5th November 2011
Updated: 6:09pm, 6th November 2011

Manager Fabio Capello has confirmed John Terry will be named in the England squad to face Spain and Sweden when it is unveiled on Sunday evening.

Terry is currently the subject of Metropolitan Police and Football Association investigations over an alleged racist remark made to Anton Ferdinand during Chelsea's recent Premier League defeat at QPR. There has been a big external debate over whether the 30-year-old, who has denied making a racist remark, should be selected.

But Capello said: "He will be in the final squad. Everyone spoke about John Terry and we decided on this - the FA and us together."

Some, including QPR owner Tony Fernandes, believe Terry should be picked on the grounds he remains innocent until proven guilty. Others feel the allegation is so grave, it would be fairer to leave Terry out until such time as the matter was resolved.

However, a meeting was held between Capello and senior FA figures - chairman David Bernstein, chief executive Alex Horne, Club England managing director Adrian Bevington and director of football development Sir Trevor Brooking - in central London on Friday.

None of those present were aware of the details of the allegation or any evidence that has been gathered.

The meeting was followed by a personal trip by the England coach to Chelsea's Cobham training ground, to confirm Terry was in.

Capello added: "Yesterday I met him personally. I spoke to him. We need to wait for what will happen about the FA investigation and the police investigation, but I can tell you he is innocent until proven guilty.

"This is a really important thing - for me and the FA. For this reason I select him."

Capello also took the trouble to have a word with Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas, who has maintained a consistent stance by picking Terry through the present problems, naming him again for Saturday afternoon's Premier League trip to Blackburn.