STATEMENT ON JOHN TERRY

Chelsea Football Club believes John Terry has made the correct decision by not appealing against the FA judgment relating to language he used at the QPR match last October.
Chelsea also appreciates, and supports, John's full apology for the language he used. The club firmly believes such language is not acceptable and fell below the standards expected of John as a Chelsea player.
The Board has conducted its own investigation into the matter, and considered the various issues involved. The Board has taken further disciplinary action in addition to the four-match suspension and £220,000 fine imposed by the FA. In accordance with our long-standing policy, that disciplinary action will remain confidential.
Chelsea enjoys support all over the world. We have players and supporters from many different countries and cultures and our club is committed to eradicating all forms of discriminatory behaviour. John is fully committed to continue supporting that ongoing work.
The FA suspension means John will be not be available to play in our games against Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United in the Premier League and League Cup, and Swansea.

John Terry's statement, released today, reads:
'After careful consideration, I have decided not to appeal against the FA judgment.
'I want to take this opportunity to apologise to everyone for the language I used in the game against Queens Park Rangers last October.
'Although I'm disappointed with the FA judgement, I accept that the language I used, regardless of the context, is not acceptable on the football field or indeed in any walk of life.
'As I stated in the criminal case, with the benefit of hindsight my language was clearly not an appropriate reaction to the situation for someone in my position.
'My response was below the level expected by Chelsea Football Club, and by me, and it will not happen again.
'Looking forward, I will continue to do my part in assisting the club to remove all types of discriminatory behaviour from football.
'I am extremely grateful for the consistent support of Chelsea FC, the fans and my family.'