England defender Phil Jones yesterday stressed there was no ill-will towards John Terry after the Chelsea defender’s inclusion in the squad to face Spain and Sweden despite allegations of racism.

Terry is facing twin investigations from the police and the FA over claims he racially abused Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand in last month’s west London derby.

The latest controversy to embroil the Chelsea defender led to calls for Terry to be axed as captain and excluded from the squad until the various investigations had reached a conclusion.

However England manager Fabio Capello and the FA included Terry on the basis of “innocent until proven guilty” and rising Manchester United star Jones emphasised the squad backed the decision.

“It has been as normal,” Jones said when asked about the mood in the England squad. “There is a great team spirit in the camp and we are looking forward to the game.

“Everything is normal. Terry is a great leader, a great captain and a great player.”

Jones admitted however to be surprised that United team-mate Rio Ferdinand, brother of Anton, had been left out of the squad. “It’s surprising (he is not in the squad). Let’s not kid ourselves, Rio is a fantastic player and has a lot of experience. Hopefully he can push his way back into the set-up.”

Jones excelled on the right side of defence during his full international debut against Montenegro last month, but there is speculation he may be tried in a defensive role in midfield against Spain.

“If I am asked to play in the game I will play wherever the manager asks me to play,” he added.

“I am more than capable of playing at right-back, centre-half or in central midfield.”