England’s Euro 2012 preparations have been thrown into further chaos after it was announced that John Terry will be  prosecuted over allegations he racially abused Anton Ferdinand.

The England captain will appear in court to face charges in the new year, and experts predict the case could drag on throughout the summer.

Terry has been ordered to appear at West London  Magistrates Court on February 1, having allegedly called QPR defender Ferdinand a ‘f******* black ****’ during a Barclays Premier League match in October.

The FA refused to comment on his position as England captain for fear of prejudicing the case.

Under the spotlight: Terry is watchful in training on Wednesday

The situation is a nightmare for Fabio Capello, who is already having to deal with Wayne Rooney’s two-match ban. He has been supportive of Terry, even visiting him recently at Chelsea’s training ground, and it is understood the Italian wants to stand by him unless he is found guilty.

However, there are problems over his captaincy. As well as the  possibility of a protracted court case, there is a serious question as to whether anyone facing such a serious and sensitive charge can command the dressing room.

Terry’s case will not go to crown court and the maximum penalty is £2,500.
However, the legal process could drag on for months, with legal argument and the setting of the trial date stretching into the summer. This could leave the matter  unresolved until after Euro 2012.

Sportsmail understands the selection of Steven Gerrard when he was on an assault charge — the Liverpool captain was acquitted — is not considered a precedent. But while the FA have consistently said they consider Terry innocent until proven guilty, they are likely to  consult the police before making a decision on whether he should be captain when England play Holland on February 29.

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