RIO FERDINAND is set to become captain for club and country.

Alex Ferguson says it is his destiny to be Manchester United skipper. And Fabio Capello will hand Rio, 29, the armband before Englands World Cup qualifiers kick off in September.

Fergie said: Rio has been captain with Gary Neville injured and Ryan Giggs unavailable.

"And obviously as Ryan gets older Rio is the natural successor that is his destiny.

His experience has added to his many abilities. He is one of the most natural footballers in England.

For a defender, he is so quick and mobile and technically gifted.

His performance in Barcelona was absolutely superb. He and Wes Brown were fantastic.

Ferdinand could get the captaincy for keeps next season with Neville, 33, unlikely to be a first-team regular after a year out injured.

Giggs, 34, is also likely to play fewer games next season.

Ferdinand hugely impressed Capello when he led England for the first time in last months friendly against France.

The defender said: Being captain for England was great likewise being skipper at Manchester United is fantastic.

Whenever I pull on that armband it is a proud moment for me and my family because of the long line of illustrious people who have worn it before me.

Capello will name his captain in time for Englands August 20 friendly with the Czech Republic.

But the Italian said: I will choose based on attitude on the pitch and behaviour off the field as well.

A captain must be a leader. He must lead by example and drag the team forward.