Chelsea captain John Terry is reportedly planning his £22,000 farewell party with his contract with the club set to expire this summer.
The 35-year-old has been a pivotal part of the club’s success for almost two decades, as his leadership skills and defensive abilities have been a pillar of the side under various managers.
Despite calls from supporters, former players and coaches that Terry’s experience will be crucial to Antonio Conte in his first season in charge at Stamford Bridge, it doesn’t appear as though the former England international will play for the club beyond this season.
According to The Daily Mail, there has been no late talk of a contract extension despite the fact that both parties seemed open to the idea of discussing a renewal if it was appropriate.
The report claims that the farewell party will cost £22,000 for a package at the Bridge, including dressing rooms, access to the stadium screens and public address system and a barbecue.
Nevertheless, it is a disappointing end to Terry’s playing career to see him have to move on in order to continue, with many hoping that he would have retired in a Chelsea shirt.
Conte’s expected arrival this summer doesn’t appear to have made much of a difference to the situation, with the Italian tactician now likely having to delve into the summer transfer market to acquire a younger option to emerge as Terry’s successor.
While there is a chance that the situation may yet change at the end of the season when all parties get another chance to sit down and discuss the options on the table, the latest suggestions that a farewell is being planned ultimately suggests that Terry’s future has already been determined.