QPR boss to abide by league decision on Chelsea handshake

Anton Ferdinand and John Terry, who has recovered from his ankle injury, will meet for the first time since the Chelsea captain’s race trial in July.

Terry was found not guilty of using a racial slur against Ferdinand in the corresponding fixture last October, but remains the subject of a Football Association investigation over charges that he denies.

QPR manager Mark Hughes said: “There’s a lot of debate every time we have a game against Chelsea.

“I’ve got my own views on the handshake and I raised those at Premier League level even before this season started. I don’t want to go into that.

“We’ll be guided by the Premier League and will respect the handshake if we’re told that’s what needs to happen.

“I’m conscious of the fact that every time we play Chelsea the issue of the handshake clouds everybody’s mind and the focus is taken away from a great Premier League game.

“It’s not my decision to make. We’re governed by the Premier League and if we’re told it will go ahead, then we will do that.

“We haven’t spoken to them but I imagine they’ll insist the handshake goes ahead, which isn’t a problem.”

Hughes held talks with his squad over the issue but refused to reveal what was said.

Ferdinand is reported to also be considering snubbing Ashley Cole after the Chelsea left-back testified as a character witness for Terry.

“We’ve had a discussion with the players but that’s between myself and them. We don’t have to broadcast that,” Hughes said.

“Everybody has a mind of their own and will make a personal decision.

“It’s unfortunate that they’re in a situation where it’s in the public domain. Anton is fine, there’s no problem with him.”