Roy Hodgson backs John Terry

By Matt Cotton, Reporter | 17 May 2012

Roy Hodgson feels that John Terry will be able to cope with any problems that come his way during Euro 2012.

England manager Roy Hodgson has said that John Terry can handle any problems that arise from the potential issue of racism at Euro 2012.

England will play two of their three group games in Donetsk, and concerns have been raised about the safety of supporters who travel to the area that is said to be a particular hotspot for trouble.

The Football Association are bound to condemn any racism issues vigorously, but could be accused of double-standards after Terry's inclusion in the 23-man party as the Chelsea captain is part of an impending court case for the alleged racial abuse of Anton Ferdinand.

"There's no doubt that the issue of racism in Ukraine is a concern for us all, not least the supporters who go over there and risk maybe getting beaten up, or if they happen not maybe to be white, subjected to a lot of abuse," said Hodgson.

"But I'm convinced that John Terry is a person who will be able to handle these matters.

"He's had to deal with a lot of criticism in different areas. He has to stand up and face situations that he has created. But he has the strength of character to do that."

Terry has made 72 England caps.