John Terry named England captain

Newcastle take UEFA Cup advantage

Gretna’s grim Euro debut

—– John Terry is named as the new captain of England.
The 25-year-old is confirmed as David Beckham’s successor by new coach Steve McClaren. Steven Gerrard is named vice-captain.
The delighted Chelsea skipper says: “It is the ultimate honour to be the captain of your country and I am very proud to be given this great opportunity.”
McClaren explains: “John has all the attributes an international captain needs - leadership, authority, courage, ability, tactical awareness and a total refusal to accept second-best.
“Over the five years I’ve been involved with the England coaching set-up I’ve seen first hand the respect that John has among his fellow players.”
Terry has so far won 29 caps since making his debut against Serbia and Montenegro in June 2003.

—– Newcastle United come away from Latvia with a one-goal lead in their UEFA Cup Second Qualifying Round tie.
The Toon take control of the first leg at FK Ventspils with a goal from centre-back Titus Bramble.

—– Gretna’s fairytale European debut turns out to be the grim variety as Derry City with 5-1 at Motherwell’s Fir Park.
Playing in English non-league football as recently as 2002, Gretna qualified for the UEFA Cup having reached last season’s Scottish Cup Final.
The Second Division champions’ remarkable story seemed set to continue when Ryan McGuffie gave them an early lead.
The Eircom League side hit back in style though to extend their best run in Europe since 1965 as they are now almost certain to reach the First Round proper.