Fabio Capello has chosen Steven Gerrard to lead England against Switzerland on Wednesday but will not name a permanent captain until September.With John Terry injured, Gerrard will take the captain's armband for the friendly international at Wembley.

But Capello told a press conference at London Colney: "He's not going to be our permanent captain - I'm not going to name the permanent captain before the Andorra match."

Andorra are England's first opponents in their World Cup 2010 qualifying campaign, on September 6.

Capello added on Sky Sports: "Steven is important for all the players because he can transmit things and pass on things and inspire players. I have done it because I think he is an important player for England, according to my plans. He will be captain for this match."

Capello continued: "I will tell the team to my players before we leave the hotel to go to the match."

The Italian, speaking through an interpreter, was reluctant to discuss the exclusion of 99-cap David Beckham.

Capello said: "I respect him greatly for all things we did together at Real Madrid.

"But at the moment the most important thing is talking about the players who will play tomorrow - not the ones who are not here."

Rio Ferdinand described the new regime on Tuesday as "like going to a new school" - with the England players eating and leaving the table together.

And Capello said: "We only come together for three days and in those three days we need to create a way of working - that's why I need to set some rules.

"We all have a role to play - everyone is worthy of respect."

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