John Terry to leave Chelsea at the end of the season

Chelsea have announced that their captain John Terry will leave the club at the end of the season.

Terry has never played for any other club and will end a 22-year stay at Chelsea at the age of 36.

Chelsea confirmed the news on their website as they released a lengthy statement thanking the skipper that lead them through the most successful period in their history.

Terry released a statement through the club as he posted a single picture of himself in a Chelsea shirt on his Instagram once the news was made public.

‘After 22 years there is so much to say and so many people to thank at this great football club,’ said Terry.

‘From coaches, team-mates and staff to the fans who have given me so much support down the years, I can’t thank you enough. There will be opportunities for me to speak further about this over the coming weeks.

‘I will decide on my future in due course, but for now I am committed to helping the team achieve success this season.

‘The club and I have always had a fantastic relationship, which will continue beyond my playing days. We had some really positive talks but with everything taken into careful consideration I have decided it’s the right time for me to leave. I’ve always been conscious that I depart at the right time, in the right way, and I feel that the end of this season is the right time for the club and I.

‘I feel I still have plenty to offer on the pitch but understand that opportunities here at Chelsea will be limited for me. I’m eager to carry on playing and so will be looking to continue with a new challenge. I will of course always be a Blue and am desperate to end my final season as a Chelsea player with more silverware.

‘Finally, words cannot describe the love I have for our football club and our amazing Chelsea fans. I would like to thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart for the unbelievable support you’ve shown me over the years.

‘You mean the world to me and every trophy we’ve won during my time at the club we’ve won together. I will never forget the incredible journey we’ve been on. Thank you so much for everything.’

Terry has made over 700 appearances for Chelsea in which he has won the Premier League four times, five FA Cups, three League Cups and the Champions League.