Terry starts against Arsenal after England axe

John Terry was named in Chelsea’s starting line-up for Sunday’s London derby against Arsenal just 48 hours after the defender was stripped of the England captaincy.

Terry was told he would no longer be leading his country in a meeting with England coach Fabio Capello on Friday following allegations that the Chelsea skipper had an affair with the ex-girlfriend of his international team-mate Wayne Bridge.

But the centre-back knew his presence at Stamford Bridge was vital as Chelsea looked to return to the top of the Premier League and Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti had no qualms about putting him in the team.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger welcomed England winger Theo Walcott and French midfielder Abou Diaby back to his team.