A long-drawn saga has finally reached its conclusion: club captain John Terry has signed a one-year contract extension to remain at Chelsea.
.@ChelseaFC is delighted to announce John Terry has signed a new one-year contract... https://t.co/jp52aHRzzY pic.twitter.com/9rhB7QLgLv
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) May 18, 2016
Terry had made it public earlier in the season that the club did not plan to offer him a new deal at the end of the season, sparking significant debate and anger from loyal supporters. The stakes were raised even higher when Terry was sent off against Sunderland, leading to a two-game ban that looked to have ended his Blues career on a low.
Guus Hiddink eventually confirmed that Terry had been offered an extension and he was considering it, raising questions about the terms of the new deal with respect to assurances over playing time and wages. That was followed by an emotional address to the fans on the final day of the season, where the captain claimed once again that he wanted to stay and that talks were ongoing. Speculation that Terry had decided to sign the extension heightened when he reportedly cancelled a "private kick-about" at Stamford Bridge. And then today, the news has been confirmed.
‘I am delighted to sign a new contract with the club. Everyone knows I'm Chelsea through and through.
‘I am looking forward to next season under the new manager and hopefully we can make it a successful one.'
‘Also, a special mention to the fans for their continued support. You're the best in the world.'
- John Terry. Source: Chelseafc.com
Chairman Bruce Buck and Director Marina Granovskaia, also had a few words.
‘We are delighted John will spend another year at the club. He has been the leader of the Chelsea squad throughout the most successful period in our history. He recently reached the 700-appearance mark, which is testament to his professionalism and dedication as well as his undoubted talent.'
- Bruce Buck
‘We look forward to another year with John at the club, and believe he will be an important figure in the dressing room and on the pitch as we look to bring success back to the club next season.'
- Marina Granovskaia
John Terry is here to stay for another season!