Hiddink hints at new contract for John Terry

Over the last few years, Chelsea's 'Old Guard' has slowly been dismantled, sold off, or retired one-by-one, piece-by-piece, player-by-player. Only John Terry (and to a lesser extent John Obi Mikel and Branislav Ivanovic) remain, though Didier Drogba could soon be back in a non-playing capacity.

Fortunately, while we wait for the 'New Guard' to emerge, Captain Terry continues to perform at a high level and help with that transition.

"I must say John [Terry] looks physically fit but also what is important when you are halfway through a season is that he looks fresh in his mind, and he is very eager to train every day and very eager to play."

"Normally it depends a bit on the physical shape and genes, but most of the time the players when they are coming to 32 their speed is dropping down and everything is more difficult, but of course there are exceptions. It depends on position as well."

"One day, not now, the body will say 'slow down a bit' but I have not seen any of that [from Terry]. I have not been asked yet [about Terry's contract situation] but these guys are very important for Chelsea."

-Guus Hiddink; source: Chelsea FC

Much like the rest of the team, JT got off to a very slow start this season, which included getting substituted off at half-time in a high profile match against Manchester City and stunningly and repeatedly failing to properly organize the defense.  But as Chelsea slowly right the ship, Terry's play is returning to the levels seen in the last couple years as well.  A few months ago he looked done; now he looks set for yet another one-year contract extension.  And that's a good thing.