John Terry Looks to Earn Contract Extension

Courtesy ScROs

Even though Chelsea FC’s central defender John Terry is considered a legendary figure by supporters, he says that he’s already fighting to earn another contract extension. The club has adopted a policy where players over the age of 30 are only brought back on a 12 month basis. Two more of the famed “old guard,” Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard were le go when their contracts expired earlier this summer. Terry on the other hand, received an extension after impressing throughout last season, and will surely wear the captains armband again this year.

When speaking to Chelsea TV, Terry had this to say about his future.

"It’s an important year for me. Obviously I got a year’s contract and it’s dependable on how I do again this year, so it’s on me and I quite like that pressure. Hopefully we can go again"

The London Evening Standard reports that Terry began pre-season training before the rest of the squad arrived, to ensure that he was fully fit when the whole team got together. He feels this will be able to help in now, but in the future as well.

"It’s a head-start and it definitely served me well because I feel great already and hopefully it will benefit me later in the year as well"

The clubs policy to not give long term contracts to players over 30 has been well documented, and examples like this may prove it to be a smart move. On history alone, one would think a player such as John Terry has done enough, especially because of his performances last season, to earn himself at least a 2-3 year extension. If this were to happen, is it possible that he and others in similar situations would rest on their laurels and not always give full effort in training and possibly on the pitch? Though unlikely, it definitely could happen.

Instead, by keeping the veterans on short term contracts, the club has leverage, but in a good way. Once a player reaches 30, he’ll know that there cannot be a sudden dip in form, or Chelsea will simply let him walk.

What are your thoughts on John Terry’s comments, and Chelsea’s contract policy in general? Does keping the veterans on a short lease help keep them at peak performance, or is it just a “smokescreen” of sorts? Let us know in the comment section, or through TPOL on social media!

Follow us on Twitter at @PrideOLondon

Like us on Facebook at The Pride of London