Rio Ferdinand intends to follow Bobby Moore's template in the art of being an England captain - and rejects outright the theory he is getting distracted by an excess of off-field projects.
After initially being confirmed in the job last February when Fabio Capello stripped John Terry of the honour, Ferdinand had his position as England skipper rubber-stamped for a second time when he was handed the armband for Tuesday's Euro 2012 qualifier with Montenegro at Wembley.
It is harsh luck on Steven Gerrard, who carried out the role with maturity on eight occasions during the 10 games since Terry was eased out, including at the World Cup and the three difficult games since.
However, now Capello has made up his mind, Ferdinand only has to look back at his old club West Ham for the perfect example of how the job should be done.
"Bobby Moore wore the armband with distinction," said the Manchester United defender.
"It helped winning the World Cup but he also did it with pure grace.
"You are judged by your behaviour and the way you carry yourself. He is a shining light of that and I would like to follow in those footsteps.
"Captaining your country is a big responsibility. This country holds the captaincy in such high regard. You have to lead by example and that is what I will be looking to do."
