John Terry to leave Chelsea in June
Chelsea legend John Terry will leave the club where's he been for nearly his entire career this summer, at the end of his contract. His future is yet to be decided.
John Terry is leaving Chelsea. The Blues legend and club captain has reached an agreement for him to leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the season, when his contract finishes.
Terry's Chelsea career coming to an end
At 36 years old, Terry has worn the Chelsea shirt on 713 occasions since he made his debut in 1998. He's scored 66 goals so far, and is the third player with most appearances for the London club. He was captain for a remarkable 578 of his appearances.
John Terry still vital in Chelsea dressing room
This season however he's not played a huge part in coach Conte's plans, with just five appearances in the Premier League, two in the FA Cup and one in the League Cup, but his leadership skills are still being felt in the dressing room, where's he's a vital part of the set-up.
Terry's trophy triumphs
Over his career Terry has won the Champions League, four Premier League titles, a Europa League, five FA cups and three League cups.
Terry says thank you to Chelsea
Terry said in a statement to the Chelsea website: ‘After 22 years there is so much to say and so many people to thank at this great football club. From coaches, team-mates and staff to the fans who have given me so much support down the years, I can’t thank you enough. There will be opportunities for me to speak further about this over the coming weeks.
'I will decide on my future in due course, but for now I am committed to helping the team achieve success this season.
'The club and I have always had a fantastic relationship, which will continue beyond my playing days. We had some really positive talks but with everything taken into careful consideration I have decided it's the right time for me to leave. I’ve always been conscious that I depart at the right time, in the right way, and I feel that the end of this season is the right time for the club and I. I feel I still have plenty to offer on the pitch but understand that opportunities here at Chelsea will be limited for me. I’m eager to carry on playing and so will be looking to continue with a new challenge. I will of course always be a Blue and am desperate to end my final season as a Chelsea player with more silverware.
Terry: Love for Chelsea
'Finally, words cannot describe the love I have for our football club and our amazing Chelsea fans. I would like to thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart for the unbelievable support you've shown me over the years. You mean the world to me and every trophy we've won during my time at the club we've won together. I will never forget the incredible journey we've been on. Thank you so much for everything.'
Chelsea thank 'captain, leader, legend' Terry
Meanwhile Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said: Everyone at Chelsea would like to place on record our thanks to John for all he has done for this football club. He has been an outstanding player, inspirational captain and has always demonstrated an exceptional commitment to the cause. He is, as the famous banner reads, our captain, leader, legend, and we wish John the very best of luck in the next chapter of his magnificent career.
