Former defender and skipper of Chelsea, John Terry, has confirmed his retirement from football The 37-year-old English man has, as a result, brought to an end 23-years of service as a player having made his first professional debut back in October 1998 for the Blues.
Many are made to believe that his decision is in line with him being tipped to fill Aston Villa's vacant managerial position following the departure of Steve Bruce earlier this season. Former Arsenal and French striker Thierry Henry has also been identified as a potential candidate.
According to the U.K tabloid Daily Mail, the two individuals have already been interviewed for the job and the ideal scenario expected to play is for Henry to be named as the head coach and Terry as his assistant. The former Arsenal and Barcelona striker's experience is what perceptibly gave him the merit over his new right-hand man.
On Sunday night, John Terry took to his Instagram page to bid farewell. He wrote: "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 fulfill 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.
"As a 14-year-old, I made my best and biggest decision: to sign for Chelsea Football Club. Words will never be enough to show how much everyone at the club means to me, in particular, the fans.
"Right from the outset they have given me total support, on and off the pitch, and I have a tremendous bond with them.
"We achieved so many great memories together and I couldn't have succeeded without you. To me, you are the best fans in the world. I hope I have done you all proud wearing the shirt and the armband.
"My club career and heart will always belong to Chelsea, but I am grateful for my loan spell at Nottingham Forest in 1999, which was invaluable for my development as a young player.
"And I also want to say a huge thank you to Aston Villa for giving me the opportunity to play at such a big club and captain it throughout the 2017-18 season. It was a privilege to represent such a renowned football club with great fans.
"I look forward to the next chapter in my life and the challenges ahead."
The ex-Chelsea defender ends his career with five Premier League titles, five FA Cups, one Europa League, and one Champions Leagues. He is also recognized as the highest scoring defender in the history of Chelsea with 41 goals having made over 500 appearances for the Blues.
