JT: I was born to lead

JOHN TERRY says he was born to be a leader.

And he intends to justify his return as England captain by ensuring the Three Lions slay the Welsh dragon in Cardiff today.

Terry said: "Being a leader is something you're born with. You can't coach it into people.

"I had great examples to learn from like Dennis Wise and Marcel Desailly but you can't teach it to anybody.

"Leading the side out at a big stadium on a big occasion, those are the things I dreamed about as a kid. I'll be very proud.

"To be in that position is fantastic for me but the main thing is to get the three points and be top of the group."

Chelsea's Terry, 30, has a superb record as England skipper - losing twice in 19 competitive games ahead of today's Euro 2012 qualifier at the Millennium Stadium.

He added: "That's a great thing but I've been trying to blank it out because I don't want to put a curse on it.

"I'd like to think I bring a lot to the dressing room before games, at half-time and on the training field.

"Everyone has to show passion and that's one of my strengths.This will be a tough game and we must be ready for the battle."