Ferdinand has first-hand knowledge of Keane's leadership skills at Manchester United before he made the switch to management with Sunderland.

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Now the central defender will lead out Fabio Capello's side at the Stade de France as the Italian continued his policy of rotating the captain's armband.

Ferdinand said: "Roy Keane was a fantastic captain. He led by example and played ever so well, getting marks of seven, eight or nine out of 10 every game.

"He was a man amongst men and, if questions need to be answered he was normally the first or second person to do that. He was a great captain and symbolic of Manchester United.

"Now for me to get the captaincy for my country is a dream come true and this is the biggest honour I've ever had.

"Of course, winning titles is unbelievable as well, but I don't think you can compare the two to be honest. This is a great honour in itself.

"How many people are named as England captain?

"Not many and to be named alongside list of illustrious players is a great achievement in itself.

"I'll be wearing that armband with as much pride as anyone in the past."
Ferdinand is aware of the threat that could be posed by Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka tonight.

He said: "Anelka is a top player. I have always said that since I was at West Ham and he was at Arsenal. I think his goal record speaks for itself.

"Wherever he has been, he has scored goals, even for teams not in the top four. His game has changed a bit to when at Arsenal when he used to run in behind looking for through balls. Now he comes deep as well.

"He does a bit of both. he has got a great strike on him and someone we will have to be aware of."