Fabio Capello has admitted making a mistake in the way he removed Rio Ferdinand as England captain.

But as England prepare to face Wales in Saturday's Euro 2012 qualifier, he insisted: 'The most important thing is not to speak about the captain. The most important thing is the result. We are not here to lose. It would not be a good position in the table if we do this.'

Pride of Lions: England captain Terry strides out at the Millennium Stadium on Friday night

But, asked if he should have spoken to Ferdinand instead of taking a chance on bumping into him in the Old Trafford directors' box during Manchester United's game against Marseille, he admitted. 'Maybe I made a mistake. It's possible to do everything better sometimes.

'I don't like to speak about the captaincy on the phone. I prefer to speak personally. I tried to meet him during the Marseille game and it didn't happen.

'I was in the directors' box. Rio didn't come. Ask him. Communication with Rio could have been better. I respect the players and sometimes I regret what happened. I hope to see him in the future.'

Capello may risk alienating Ferdinand further with his intransigence but the England boss was in combative mood as he defended his right to do the job.

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