Gary Cahill has called his chance to serve as England captain "a career high" ahead of the Three Lions' European Championships qualifier with Estonia.
Roy Hodgson's men round off Euro 2016 qualifying with a trip to Lithuania after Estonia visit Wembley on Friday, when the Chelsea defender will lead his country out as captain for the very first time.
Cahill has worn the England armband before, but never to begin a match.
"Obviously it is an extremely proud moment for me tomorrow, not just for myself but my family," Cahill said, skippering the side in the absence of Wayne Rooney, who is out with an ankle injury. "It is one I am looking to enjoy as much as I possibly can.
"It is a great honour, a dream come true. Since the boss gave me the vice-captain role I've enjoyed that, but waiting and hoping obviously to at some stage lead the team out.
"I know I've had the armband once or twice when Wayne has come off the pitch, but to lead the team out will be something incredible for myself.
"Definitely a career high for me and something I'm really looking forward to."
Estonia coach Magnus Pehrsson admitted his side cannot expect an easier ride against England at Wembley following Rooney's withdrawal.
The usual England captain's injury could give Estonia a lift as they hope to spring an upset against the already confirmed group winners to keep themselves in contention for a playoff place.
But Perhsson does not see it that way, knowing that opposite number Roy Hodgson has strength in depth.
The Swede told reporters at a press conference: "Of course Rooney is a key player and the captain, but the attack could be led by Harry Kane. All the English players are good. This does not change anything."
Pehrsson also dismissed concerns about the state of the pitch at Wembley, which in the past three weeks has hosted two matches from the rugby union World Cup and an American football game.
Pehrsson said: "This is still a very good pitch. I do not think it will break our game up. If there's anything from not being quite perfect, we hope that it breaks down the English game."