Terry left because he wanted to play, says Conte
JOHN Terry turned his back on another season at Chelsea because he had a burning desire to play as many games as possible this term.
His former boss, Antonio Conte, admitted he would have liked the 36-year-old to stick around at Stamford Bridge for one more campaign.
But Terry insisted he wanted regular football and, at Aston Villa, his wish will be granted.
“He told me he wanted to play regularly,” said Conte. “There was a possibility to stay with us because I was very happy to have another season with John.
“But I respected his choice. He loves football, to enjoy training sessions, to push.
“I told him ‘ when you have this desire in your heart and your head, continue to play. When you decide to stop playing, you finish’.
“In his heart and his head he wanted to continue to play, but to play regularly, not once (in a while)... or to stay in the squad.
“For this reason I have great respect for him.”
Terry has fitted in well at and is already leading the after taking the captain’s band.
Villa are yet to concede a goal Villa way arm- with him on the pitch but his qualities around the training ground are also making a big difference.
Conte admitted Chelsea will miss his presence and that their loss will be Villa’s gain.
“John is a big loss,” he said. “Last season he didn’t play a lot but his role was very important on and off the pitch.
“I think he decided to go to Aston Villa to avoid playing Chelsea and we have to hope that we don’t meet in the FA Cup or League Cup.
“I wish for him and his family the best. I appreciated him a lot as a player but, overall, as a man.”