At last John Terry is receiving the recognition he deserves. John’s off-field problems have been well documented (resulting in the 22-year olds exclusion from international football which ultimately led to him missing out on last summers European Under-21 Championships) but at last the nation will see a Terry that we (as Chelsea supporters) know and love. Strong, determined, intelligent, ambitious and focused, Terry is a young man who has evolved and grown following his experiences and “struggles” off the field.
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Speaking earlier this month he said: "I'd love to be England captain, it's always been a dream of mine.
"Any player will tell you they want to play for their country and being captain is the ultimate achievement.
"Obviously, I have to get in the England team first! But I'd hope that, after a few years, I'd be considered for the captaincy."
Referring to his earlier off field troubles, John reflected with regret and understanding how previous alleged misbehaviour/controversy had “troubled” his blossoming career.
"The court case cost me a year of my England career but I've come back stronger. I resent the way I was treated by England a little bit. I knew I was innocent and it was really upsetting that I couldn't play," revealed Terry.
"I made a mistake being out that night, but I didn't deserve to be treated like that. I guess the FA made its decision with Lee Bowyer and Jonathan Woodgate and couldn't really go back on it."
"Being left out wasn't too bad as I didn't expect to picked to be honest. I'd only just broken into the Chelsea side and hadn't played enough games to be considered," he said.
"Mr Eriksson did watch two of the four games I'd played, so either he doesn't like me as a player or wanted to see a bit more of me."
Terry is now a man committed to his football and to his club and country. Realising his responsibilities and ensuring his focus and physical/mental well being John said: "I have a much healthier lifestyle and really watch what I eat and drink," he maintained.
"I was never one to go out and get smashed, but would have a few beers now and then. Now I don't drink at all, except on special occasions like a wedding or my birthday.
"That night has opened my eyes to what some people are like, how they're prepared to put me down. I'm so concentrated and dedicated to my football that I don't want to go out."
With John concentrated as he is, and playing so outstandingly as a defender and as the natural leader, one thing is for sure…..you better watch out for that captaincy Mr Beckham!