Conte makes decision over Terry move

Chelsea captain John Terry will not be leaving the club in January, Blues boss Antonio Conte has stated.

The former England international was linked with a loan deal to Premier League rivals Bournemouth, after the league leaders recalled on-loan defender Nathan Ake from Eddie Howe’s side.

When asked whether or not head had spoken to his captain about a move to the Vitality, Conte said:

“Honestly, no,

“With John, I speak every day. John never talked to me about this situation and it means he is very happy to stay here and, above all, I am very happy John stays here and helps me.

“John is an important player for me – if he plays or doesn’t play – because he’s a really important man in the changing room.

“This squad needs him. He’s a great player but also a great man and for me it’s fantastic to have a person like him to help me in my first season at Chelsea. I repeat, John stays with us. He is our player, he is in my squad.”

The four time Premier League winner has made over 670 appearances for the west London side, winning a further five FA Cups, three League Cups and  Champions League on the way.

However, with Conte overhauling his squad since his arrival, the 36-year-old has made just eight appearances in all competitions this season.