Terry: I’m ready to be a manager
JOHN Terry has expressed his determination to step into management – but declined to comment on speculation linking him with Aston Villa.
The former Chelsea star spoke for the first time about the decision to end his playing career and a desire to make the transition into the dugout.
Having been connected with the Villa hot seat vacated by Steve Bruce, Terry said: “I’m ready for the next chapter in my life. Let’s see what the future brings. Hopefully it brings half the success I had as a player.
“I am excited, you are a long time retired. I felt I could still play but I feel like I have made the right decision at the right time.
“I am ready for the next challenge and next step. It’s an ambition of mine (to be a boss), it has been for a long time.”
Terry’s final season as a player was spent with Bruce at Villa and his last game ended in the painful play-off final defeat to Fulham in May.
Bookies’ favourite Thierry Henry has rejected the job after being approached by Monaco. The French legend was keen on the post but had his head turned by the emotional pull of his old club.
Rui Faria has also reportedly turned down the position after Villa made informal contact.
Faria has been under consideration for his first managerial job after leaving Manchester United this summer in pursuit of his own fresh challenge following 17 years alongside Jose Mourinho.
Meanwhile, sources have told the that former Valencia sporting director Jesus Garcia Pitarch has NOT started working for Villa, contrary to reports.