Chelsea have confirmed that their captain John Terry has extended his stay at Stamford Bridge by another season.
Although earlier there were rumours that Terry, whose previous contract was due to expire this summer, was not keen on extending his contract at the West London club (due to Chelsea's policy of reduced wages for players above 30 years), the former England captain showed his loyalty to the Blues by agreeing on a new deal.
The 33-year-old defender, who was in excellent touch this season, claims that the return of Jose Mourinho to Stamford Bridge was the main reason behind his good form and decision to extend his stay at the club.
"I'm delighted to have signed an extension to my contract with Chelsea taking me into my 20th year with the club. I'd like to thank the fans and club for their continued support, and the manager who was instrumental for me the last season," Terry, who has won three Premier League titles (2004/05, 2005/06, 2009/10) with the Blues, told Chelsea's official website.
Chelsea Chief executive Ron Gourlay also expressed his delight at Terry, who has made 621 appearances, scoring 57 goals for the Blues, extending his contract at Stamford Bridge.
"We are very pleased John, who is an undoubted Chelsea legend, will continue to lead the team next season, as he has done for so many years with unrivalled achievement. Both Chelsea FC and John have been clear throughout that we wanted his outstanding career at the club to continue, and it is important the matter has been concluded so soon after the end of the season, allowing us to look forward to and plan for 2014/15."
Terry, who was excellent during Mourinho's first spell at Stamford Bridge in the 2004/05 season (where the Blues only conceded 15 goals in the Premier League), once again impressed at the back with Gary Cahill, conceding only 27 goals in 38 league games.
Meanwhile, Chelsea's other veteran players Ashley Cole and Frank Lampard's contracts are also going to expire this summer. However, the 'Special One' has hinted that the duo may also be extending their stay at the West London club.