Chelsea captain John Terry

Roy Hodgson hailed John Terry

England manager Roy Hodgson has singled out Chelsea star John Terry for special praise.

The Blues defender’s selection was controversial as it was seen by many to be the reason why Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand was left at home with the 31-year-old facing a court date after the tournament for an alleged racial slur on Anton Ferdinand, brother of Rio – Terry denies the charges.

“As a coach you have to be very careful taking on board these rumours, fears and suggestions,” Hodgson said.

“It is so important you choose the players you think are the right ones, that you work with them and get the experience for yourself.

“I can only talk about John and the four or five weeks I have been working with him.

“He has been a top-class professional and very good off the field as well.”

Terry has been in excellent form for the Three Lions at Euro 2012 and produced a spectacular clearance against Ukraine –although replays suggested that the ball had crossed the line before the former skipper cleared it.

The incident, however, should have been avoided as Artem Milevskiy was offside in the build-up.