Fabio – Terry still important

England head coach Fabio Capello has confirmed John Terry will continue to be an important player despite being stripped of the captaincy.

The Chelsea ace was removed as England captain last week in a meeting with Capello following a string of allegations regarding his private life.

There had been lingering doubts whether the 29-year-old would still be part of Capello’s squad, something he quickly moved to address following the Euro 2012 qualifying draw.

After being paired with Wales, Switzerland, Bulgaria and Montenegro in Group G the Italian tactician confirmed Terry was still an important player ahead of this summer’s World Cup finals.

Draw the line

Capello now wants to draw the line under the issue ahead of talks with new captain Rio Ferdinand next month.

“This is now over,” explained Capello. “It is finished. It is time to move on.

“John Terry is still an important player for England. He is still one of the most important players for England.”