Chelsea defender John Terry will reportedly not be offered a new contract at the end of the season, and so is expected to end his playing career.
The 36-year-old has been on the periphery of Antonio Conte’s plans in recent months, with the Italian tactician switching to a back three made up of Cesar Azpilicueta, David Luiz and Gary Cahill which in turn has delivered successful results with Chelsea sitting top of the table.
According to The Times, Conte is in agreement with club bosses that it’s in the best interests of the club not to offer another playing contract to Terry, and so the inspirational Chelsea captain will now likely pursue a career in coaching full-time.
The former England international left it late last summer before penning a new deal, but it doesn’t look as though there will be a repeat scenario this time round.
Nevertheless, having spent his entire career at Stamford Bridge, making almost 500 Premier League appearances and winning countless trophies along the way including four league titles and the Champions League, Terry is expected to remain a presence in the Chelsea set-up moving forward.
However, coupled with the reason above and with injuries ensuring that he hasn’t started a Premier League game since September, it appears to make sense for time to be called on his playing days.
Given his affection for Chelsea, it’s highly unlikely that he’ll accept an offer from a rival in England while the report goes on to add that he has received big-money offers from China to carry on playing.
Regardless, it would be a surprise not to see Terry stay on at Stamford Bridge, with the Chelsea icon likely to continue his coaching path under Conte in a suitable role agreed upon by all parties.