John Terry denies racism claims

By Jack Prescott, Rugby Editor | 23 October 2011

Chelsea captain John Terry denies allegations that he racially abused QPR defender Anton Ferdinand during the two sides' draw at Loftus Road.

Chelsea captain John Terry has denied claims that he racially abused Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand during the two sides' match at Loftus Road.

Video footage has circulated around the internet which appears to show Terry shouting at Ferdinand towards the end of the Blues' 1-0 defeat.

"I've seen that there's a lot of comments on the internet with regards to some video footage of me in today's game," the England captain said in a statement. "I'm disappointed that people have leapt to the wrong conclusions about the context of what I was seen to be saying to Anton Ferdinand.

"I thought Anton was accusing me of using a racist slur against him. I responded aggressively, saying that I never used that term. I would never say such a thing, and I'm saddened that people would think so. I have known Anton for a long time and spoke to him about it after the game and there was no problem between us. I congratulated him on their win. He has not accused me of any wrongful remark.

"It was clear it was all a misunderstanding at the time. After the result today, I am saddened to be dealing with these wrongful allegations. I am the proud captain of one of the most internationally diverse teams in the Premier League and I absolutely believe that there is no place for racism in sport and indeed in any walk of life."

The allegations come after the FA began their investigation into claims by Manchester United defender Patrice Evra that he was racially abused by Liverpool striker Luis Suarez.