'Most difficult day' for Terry in Stamford Bridge exit - Capital Sports
Connect with us

Hi, what are you looking for?

English Premiership

‘Most difficult day’ for Terry in Stamford Bridge exit

Chelsea’s defender John Terry poses with the English Premier League trophy at Stamford Bridge in London on May 21, 2017 © AFP / Ben STANSALL

LONDON, United Kingdom, May 21 – Chelsea legend John Terry’s final appearance at Stamford Bridge ended with his team-mates forming a guard of honour as he exited in the 26th minute of the Premier League clash with Sunderland.

The 36-year-old — the time of his premature departure chiming with his shirt number — was visibly moved when he was replaced by Gary Cahill, who has also stepped in and skippered the team on the pitch to the title this season.

Terry, who leaves Chelsea at the end of this season after 22 years, exited to a standing ovation from the fans who despite some off-pitch scandals is revered by them.

Terry, though, returned to the pitch after the match to receive the Premier League trophy, the 15th piece of silverware he has lifted.

He may also get to raise the FA Cup if Chelsea beat Arsenal in next Saturday’s final at Wembley.

Fans display banners in support of their departing captain John Terry ahead of the Premier League match between Chelsea and Sunderland at Stamford Bridge in London, on May 21, 2017 © AFP / Ben STANSALL

The former England central defender then made an emotional address to the Chelsea fans — paying tribute to both them and Russian owner Roman Abramovich who was present.

“Today is one of the most difficult days of my life,” said Terry.

“I’ve been very fortunate to work with some unbelievable players and managers throughout my career. I’m thankful to every single one of them.

“I’d like to thank Roman Abramovich and all the board. He’s the best owner in world football.”

Terry has yet to decide whether or not to carry on playing, although Swansea manager Paul Clement has said he would like to have him after working with him when he was on the coaching staff at Stamford Bridge, appeared on the pitch with his children.

Advertisement. Scroll to continue reading.

“I’d like to thank my wife and my kids for supporting me in this amazing journey I’ve had,” said Terry.

Chelsea’s defender John Terry (centre left) stands with head coach Antonio Conte, as players celebrate their league title win at Stamford Bridge in London on May 21, 2017 © AFP / Ian KINGTON

“You (the Chelsea fans) are the best supporters in the world, without a shadow of a doubt.

“You’ve given me everything. You picked me up when I was down, sung my name when I had a bad game and disappointed you.

“I’ll come back here one day, supporting the team for years to come.”

Former Tottenham, Barcelona and England striker Gary Lineker was quick to take to twitter to pay tribute to the central defender.

“John Terry’s magnificent Chelsea career ends after 26 minutes of his final match. A great defender. A real leader. And a winner,” tweeted Lineker.

Advertisement

More on Capital Sports

Football

NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 27 – DStv and GOtv subscribers are in for a treat of the world’s best football this week as the 2020-21...

Football

NAIROBI, Kenya, May 25 – There is light at the end of the tunnel. After failed promises over the last three years since its...

Football

NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 6 – Gentrix Shikangwa scored with two minutes left as Vihiga Queens sailed to the final of the CECAFA regional qualifiers...

NFL

NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 13 – Kenya’s history making Daniel Adongo, the first Kenyan to play in America’s National Football League (NFL), is now living...

© 2024 Capital Digital Media. Capital Group Limited. All Rights Reserved