Fabio Capello has defended his decision to continue selecting John Terry in his England squads while the defender is at the centre of a racism investigation.

The manager insists Terry is "innocent until proven guilty" after the accusations were made against the Chelsea player over an incident involving QPR's Anton Ferdinand nearly three weeks ago.

Terry will not start against Spain while Capello looks at other players in his squad such as Joleon Lescott and Phil Jagielka.

But he will return - and as captain - for Tuesday's friendly with Sweden at Wembley.

When asked if Terry should have been excluded, Capello said: "Why? For me he is innocent until proven guilty. Absolutely.

"For that reason he is here. Sorry. I can't speak about it.

"I decided that he will not play against Spain. I want to see something different in the two centre-backs.

"John will play against Sweden and will be captain. He is the team leader. He has always been really important in the dressing room."

Frank Lampard, who will skipper the side against Spain, is adamant he does not feel uneasy leading the side in the current circumstances.

He said: "The manager has has confirmed John remains captain for the team. I'm happy to play for England whether I am captain or not. But John remains captain of the squad."