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Capello selects Terry and Rio in provisional squad

John Terry is still the England captain © PA Photos

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Fabio Capello will leave John Terry out of his England squad to face Spain and Sweden if the Football Association advises him to do so, while Rio Ferdinand has been put on standby to replace him.

It is the latest twist to the alleged race row involving the England captain and Rio's brother Anton.

Both Terry and Ferdinand have been included in the provisional squad for the two upcoming international friendlies, but it is inconceivable right now that both could be in the party which will meet up at London Colney next week.

Capello will announce his final squad for the games on Sunday after the weekend's Premier League fixtures have been completed.

An ESPNsoccernet source close to Capello has been told that the England manager will seek guidance from the FA on whether to select his captain, who is now the subject of a police inquiry.

The same source revealed that Ferdinand, who has not played for England since June's 2-2 draw with Switzerland at Wembley, will be named in the provisional squad.

Capello watched Ferdinand in the Champions League tie against Otelul Galati at Old Trafford on Wednesday night, and plans to discuss the player's form and fitness with Sir Alex Ferguson on Thursday at a dinner to celebrate the manager's 25 years in charge.

Ferguson said this week that Ferdinand has lost a yard of pace that he had five years ago, but can adapt his game and still stay at the top, and Capello concurs. He seems set to select Ferdinand to add some experience to the group of young players who will come into the side.

With regards to Terry's position as England captain, the England source said: "This really has become an issue for the FA rather than for Fabio. The problem is that if Fabio does not select John Terry it is a punishment now before the inquiries have run their course, and before any evidence has been examined.

"It is innocent and until proven guilty in Italy as it is in England, and as yet John Terry has not been found guilty of anything.

"However, if he is proven guilty then that will be the time for Fabio to decide whether to punish him by not selecting him or by deciding on the captaincy.

"Right now, it is a difficult situation and not one that Fabio should be taking, but [instead] a matter for the FA to decide. The FA needs to tell Fabio what is best to do, and there will be talks shortly, as the provisional squad is being selected."

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