Chelsea have announced that captain John Terry will leave the club at the end of the season.It’s hardly the most surprising news considering Terry, 36, has made just five Premier League appearances this season.Terry’s exit will bring to an end a hugely successful 22-year spell at the club. The centre-back has won four Premier League titles, five FA Cups and the Champions League.The former England international earned several individual accolades during his time at Chelsea, too, including being named the PFA Players’ Player of the Year in 2004-05 and being named in the FIFA FIFPro World XI five times.Terry has courted controversy throughout his career but you can’t deny what a fantastic footballer he has been for Chelsea.
Terry's impressive career
Terry's statement
In a statement on the club’s website, Terry said: “After 22 years there is so much to say and so many people to thank at this great football club.
“From coaches, team-mates and staff to the fans who have given me so much support down the years, I can’t thank you enough. There will be opportunities for me to speak further about this over the coming weeks.
“I will decide on my future in due course, but for now I am committed to helping the team achieve success this season.
“The club and I have always had a fantastic relationship, which will continue beyond my playing days. We had some really positive talks but with everything taken into careful consideration I have decided it's the right time for me to leave.
“I’ve always been conscious that I depart at the right time, in the right way, and I feel that the end of this season is the right time for the club and I.”
Terry's Instagram post
Terry has made 713 appearances for Chelsea since he made his debut in 1998. In that time, he’s scored 66 goals.
Terry added: “I feel I still have plenty to offer on the pitch but understand that opportunities here at Chelsea will be limited for me. I’m eager to carry on playing and so will be looking to continue with a new challenge.
“I will of course always be a Blue and am desperate to end my final season as a Chelsea player with more silverware.
“Finally, words cannot describe the love I have for our football club and our amazing Chelsea fans. I would like to thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart for the unbelievable support you've shown me over the years.
“You mean the world to me and every trophy we've won during my time at the club we've won together. I will never forget the incredible journey we've been on. Thank you so much for everything.”