Terry calls it quits after Aston Villa link

Former England captain John Terry has announced his retirement from playing.

The long-serving Chelsea defender has hung up his boots at the age of 37 and is understood to be primed for a quick return to Aston Villa.

He is poised to become Thierry Henry’s assistant at the club he played for last season, if former Arsenal star Henry lands the Villa job this week.

Terry wrote on Instagram: “After 23 incredible years as a footballer, I have decided now is the right time to retire from playing. I have many people to thank. My wife Toni and my two children, Georgie and Summer, for being my rocks throughout my career – I couldn’t have done it without you, I love you with all my heart.

“I thank my parents, Sue and Ted, for the sacrifices they made for me as a boy, giving me the best opportunity to fulfil my dream and become a professional footballer. My brother, Paul, for his help and advice throughout my career – and all my family and friends for their great support.”

Terry added: “As a 14-yearold, I made my best and biggest decision: to sign for Chelsea. Words will never be enough to show how much everyone at the club means to me, in particular the fans.”

He also went on to thank Nottingham Forest for a loan spell in 1999 and Villa for making him captain last season, before concluding: “I look forward to the next chapter in my life.”