John Terry announces international retirement ahead of FA hearing

Sunday, September 23, 2012
8:44 PM

Chelsea captain John Terry has announced his retirement from international football.

The news comes on the eve of an FA hearing into alleged racist abuse towards QPR’s Anton Ferdinand - one that he was cleared of in a court of law. The centre back denies the charge.

The 31-year-old said in a statement: “I am today announcing my retirement from international football.

“I would like to thank the England managers who have selected me for my 78 caps.

“I have had great pleasure in sharing that honour with all the players that I’ve played with.

“I would like to thank them, the fans and my family for their support and encouragement during my international career.

“Representing and captaining my country is what I dreamed of as a boy and it has been a truly great honour.

“I have always given my all and it breaks my heart to make this decision.

“I want to wish Roy [Hodgson] and the team every success for the future.

“I am making this statement today in advance of the hearing of the FA disciplinary charge because I feel the FA, in pursuing charges against me where I have already been cleared in a court of law, have made my position with the national team untenable.

“I now look forward to playing for Chelsea FC, and challenging for domestic and European honours, and I want to thank the fans and the club for their continued support.”