World Cup 2010 news: Wayne Rooney says John Terry is still a leader

01/03/2010

Wayne Rooney has thrown his support behind John Terry ahead of World Cup 2010 by declaring the England squad still looks up to the centre-half.

The Chelsea player was stripped of the captaincy last month by manager Fabio Capello, but Rooney claimed that Terry's stature and form have been unaffected.

Manchester United's star striker pointed out that Terry has been named in World 11 teams for the past three years, indicating that there are few question marks surrounding his ability prior to World Cup 2010.

And he said that there has been no difference in the defender's demeanour since the Three Lions met up ahead of the friendly clash with African Nations winners Egypt on March 3rd 2010.

"John Terry is a leader for our team and although he hasn't got the armband he is still a great player and a great leader," Rooney added.

The forward's Manchester United team-mate Rio Ferdinand was named as Terry's successor to the captaincy last month.

Posted by Ted Walker