Chelsea's interim manager Guus Hiddink has said that John Terry may remain with the club beyond the end of the season.
Terry, 35, claimed at the weekend that he was to leave Stamford Bridge in the summer, having been informed that his expiring contract would not be renewed.
The West Londoners have since released a statement in which they insisted that Terry may still be offered a fresh deal - something that Hiddink reiterated to reporters this afternoon.
"I have had some conversations with him in the past days. He is entitled after his contract is ending to make up his mind," said the Dutchman.
"On the other hand I don't want to overvalue the attention we are giving it. The club wants to have the dialogue - to have an open door still.
"It was a bit surprising [to hear Terry speak out], but he's completely entitled to do so. There was no specific decision made yet, it's early. You have to see what happens with the management."
Despite the uncertainty over his long-term future, it is expected that captain Terry will retain his place in Hiddink's starting lineup between now and the campaign's conclusion.
Liam Apicella
