Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has been named England captain for Wednesday's friendly with France in Paris.
Chelsea defender John Terry, captain under Steve McClaren, had been expected to skipper the side on Wednesday.
Steve Gerrard led England for manager Fabio Capello's first game in charge against Switzerland last month.
There was also speculation that David Beckham could captain the side if, as expected, he wins his 100th cap.
Although Capello has named Ferdinand, 29, to lead the side against France there is no suggestion that the Manchester United star will captain England throughout their forthcoming World Cup qualifying campaign.
"Fabio Capello has confirmed that Rio Ferdinand will captain England against France in Paris," said an FA statement.
"Capello has confirmed this continues his policy of rotating the captaincy between players in the friendly matches before confirming a permanent captain for the World Cup qualifying games."
At the weekend previous skipper John Terry, 27, had said that despite being England captain under McClaren, he didn't expect to be given the nod by Capello.
"I certainly don't expect to be captain but I 'm very hopeful I am," Terry told BBC Sport.
"I wish to continue to as England captain but I respect Mr Capello's decision."
Ferdinand was first capped for his country in 1997 against Cameroon and has represented England 65 times.
The game is also expected to be a landmark for Beckham who is set to win his 100th cap for his country.
Capello has a fully fit squad to choose from with Manchester United striker and Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard taking a full part in training despite picking up knocks during Sunday's games.
France coach Raymond Domenech has called on a squad of 39 players to cover the England match, as well as an 'A' team fixture against Mali on Tuesday.
He will be without former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry, who withdrew after Barcelona's 4-1 defeat of Real Valladolid on Sunday.
Patrick Vieira has also pulled out, with a sore thigh muscle while, Juventus striker David Trezeguet has been called into the squad.
Article first appeared on BBC Website|