Capello heartened by reaction of England players

Lurid headlines regarding John Terry's private life and his subsequent removal as captain of the national team have dominated the agenda.

Steven Gerrard will captain the side against Egypt tomorrow in the absence of the injured Rio Ferdinand, who was promoted to skipper following Terry's demotion.

Wayne Bridge's decision to make himself unavailable for selection for the national team amid reports Terry had an affair with his former partner has also cast a cloud over the camp, but Capello has been pleased with the response this week.

"I spoke with the players and said they have to recreate the spirit of the team and train with focus," Capello explained.

"I'm really happy because I saw the same thing as in November (in the friendly against Brazil in Doha]."