LONDON - BRITISH papers applauded the sacking of England captain John Terry Saturday, praising manager Fabio Capello for stamping his authority on the team ahead of the looming World Cup.

The Sun newspaper reported that Terry was not ruling out a return ahead of the crucial tournament in South Africa which starts in June.

It said the Chelsea captain was heard to say: 'If there's a one per cent chance of being World Cup captain, I will fight for it tooth and nail'.

Most papers, though, turned their attention to Capello, praising the Italian manager's uncompromising stance after Terry's alleged affair with the ex-girlfriend of England team-mate Wayne Bridge.

'Grazie, Signor Capello' - 'Thank You Mr Capello' in Italian - was the front page headline on the Daily Mail.

The Times hailed Capello's decisiveness in dealing with the situation. The Sun added: 'It sent out a message to players and fans alike that was loud and clear: 'I'm in charge''. -- AFP