Footballer John Terry is to be stripped of the England captaincy, according to reports in the media.
It follows the adjournment of his trial on race abuse charges until July 9 – a week after the Euro 2012 finals come to an end, reports Sky News.
The Football Association is understood to be concerned about the impact this could have on the team during the tournament.
Apparently, it also feels it should be seen to be taking a lead on the issue of racism in football.
FA Chairman, David Bernstein will reportedly talk to England coach, Fabio Capello about the matter later.
Capello’s position has always been that Terry, who denies the charges, is innocent until proven guilty and that he should continue as captain until the trial is over.
There is said to be some nervousness among FA board members as to how the Italian will react, with some fearing he will see it as undue interference in team affairs.
He has taken the captaincy away from Terry before over his alleged affair with the ex-partner of former Chelsea teammate Wayne Bridge – but later re-instated him, saying he was the best man for the job.
Terry is due to stand trial in July over claims he racially abused Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand.
The alleged incident happened during a Premier League match at QPR’s Loftus Road staduim in October.
Terry, 31, has vowed to fight the charges, which carry a maximum fine of £2,500.
In a statement issued after a preliminary hearing on Wednesday, his legal team said: “Mr Terry looks forward to the opportunity to clear his name.
“(He) denies making any racist statement and will establish in court that he is not guilty of any such offence.
“Mr Terry has never racially abused another player in his entire career.”
In other news meanwhile, Chelsea Manager Andre Villas-Boas has come out in support of Terry
Recent Comments