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LONDON - JOHN Terry finally had something to smile about, marking his return as England captain with a goal in Wednesday's 2-0 friendly win over the United States.
Steven Gerrard scored the other goal.
Just a week ago, Terry was inconsolable after his penalty miss cost Chelsea the Champions League final against Manchester United.
'If I'm being honest, this was the last place I wanted to come this week, seeing all the United players,' said the defender.
'But it's actually done me a huge favour. The manager gave me a huge boost when he told me I was going to be captain and, hopefully, I've repaid him. I've shown that I'm a big man, a man for the big games.'
Coach Fabio Capello felt that this friendly was invaluable to his preparations for next season's World Cup qualifiers.
He said: 'When we needed to play long ball, we played long ball. When we needed to pass, we passed the ball.
'I liked the pressing and we didn't wait a lot of time to win back the ball. It's another step forward.'
This game had been drifting aimlessly for 38 minutes when Terry thundered a header from a free kick by David Beckham.
Beckham was presented with a golden cap by Sir Bobby Charlton to mark his 100th appearance in England's last match, into the corner of the net.
Substitute Gareth Barry's sublime pass sent Gerrard clear on goal in the 59th minute and the midfielder calmly scored.
Now the team fly to Trinidad & Tobago for Sunday's friendly, although seven players involved in last week's Champions League final have been excused.
AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
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