Robson backs Ferdinand for England role

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2008

LONDON (AFP) — Former England manager Bobby Robson believes Rio Ferdinand would be a shrewd choice as the national captain.

Fabio Capello will choose his skipper ahead of Wednesday's friendly international against the Czech Republic.

And Robson believes that while John Terry and Ferdinand are the obvious candidates, the Manchester United defender would be a clever choice.

"My instinct would be for John Terry because he is the type of naturally courageous player who leads his team-mates by example," Robson told The Mail on Sunday.

"But Rio Ferdinand, so much more mature than five years ago, would be a clever choice for another reason.

"You feel Terry will give 100 percent whatever the game, whatever the weather, whatever the circumstances....