Chelsea defender John Terry has insisted that he remains hopeful over agreeing to terms on a new deal with the club at the end of the season.
The former England international’s current deal expires at the end of the season, and there had been suggestions that the club wouldn’t offer him a new contract.
However, dialogue is understood to be open between the two parties as the season goes on, and there is still a possibility, something that Terry is keen on exploring more, that he will sign a renewal.
“I am still very hopeful,” Terry said, as reported by Sky Sports. “I have been there 21 years and I will never give up until if finally happens. But who knows?
“I have still got a lot to give – whether that is here or somewhere else – that is for sure.”
Meanwhile, the veteran defender also had positive words about interim boss Guus Hiddink who took charge of the club following Jose Mourinho’s sacking in December.
The Dutch tactician has overseen a significant improvement in the form of the Premier League champions over the last two months, and Terry was full of praise for him.
“Guus has been phenomenal since he come in. Not only this time, but last time in 2009 as well,” Terry added.
“We can only focus on that and what he’s doing at the moment. But he’s doing a fantastic job, as are the players at the moment.”
It has been suggested this week that Antonio Conte will arrive at Stamford Bridge in the summer, with Hiddink not thought to be in the running to become a long-term successor to Mourinho.