Antonio Conte says John Terry wanted to play regular football.
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has said that losing John Terry was a “big loss” for the club, but he respects the player’s decision to move on.
Terry moved to Aston Villa this summer ending 19-years of association with Chelsea.
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte during the press conference
Conte revealed that he wanted the 36-year-old former captain to stay at the London club for one more season, but Terry decided to move on in search of regular first team action.
Last season Terry made only nine Premier League appearances, and it became clear that he would play bit-part roles if he stayed on.
The 47-year-old Italian said that Terry decided to join the Villans because he wanted to avoid playing Chelsea.
“He told me that he wanted to play regularly,” said Conte, as quoted by The Birmingham Mail. “There was a possibility to stay with us because I was very happy to have another season with John.
“But I respected his choice. He loves football, to enjoy training sessions, to push.
“John is a big loss. I think he decided to go to Aston Villa to avoid playing Chelsea and we have to hope that we don’t meet in the FA Cup or League Cup.”
Terry has fitted in well at his new club, and has been given the captain’s armband by Steve Bruce.
Villa are yet to concede with him on the pitch, but it is his overall presence that is going to make a huge difference in the coming season.
Chelsea’s John Terry after the match
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
