Terry: Not all down to manager

12 April 2012

John Terry concedes it does not matter who the Football Association appoint as England manager if the players do not start performing.

The Chelsea and England captain on Tuesday appeared to give his backing to his former club boss Jose Mourinho, describing him as the outstanding candidate for the job - but he knows it will take more than just a change at the top to turn their fortunes around.

"We are at a very low point at the moment. We can only go forward," he said on Sky Sports News. "The FA are looking to bring in the right man to take us forward. But maybe as players we have not done it at international level."

He added: "I take a lot of responsibility on my shoulders as captain. Hopefully I can keep the armband and drive us forward."

Terry is convinced Mourinho, who left Stamford Bridge by mutual consent in September, has the ingredients to help put England on the right path.

The defender has already held talks with FA chief executive Brian Barwick about a number of subjects and the next England manager is understood to have been one of them.

Terry declared: "I have had a meeting with Brian Barwick but that stays very private between me and him.

"It was not just about managers but many things. But that will stay very private. I sure he will meet a few of the other guys as well but it is great to be consulted on these matters.

"Jose came in and took us to a new level at Chelsea. I am very lucky to have worked with Jose - he is a fantastic manager and a fantastic guy.

"He is one that really stands out for me and could make a big difference. He's a great guy, tactically he is very aware, and he understands the game very well."

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