Former England captain John Terry has ruled out a return to the international frame, insisting his days in the England jersey ‘are gone’.
The Chelsea defender, who retired from international football in 2012, was speaking to Sky Sports after his club’s 4-0 victory over Tottenham strengthened their charge towards the Premier League title.
Terry has formed a fine central defensive pairing with compatriot Gary Cahill this term, conceding just three times since the turn of the year. And his performances had suggestion Roy Hodgson may call on him to come out of international retirement.
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Glen Hoddle heaped praise on the 33-year-old, insisting he is one of England’s best centre-half options, but Terry believes it is time for the next generation to step forward.
"My days are gone and it is down to Gary and the young boys to push on for our country," the Blues skipper told Sky Sports.
"He seems to get better every day. He is great in the air and reads it well, he is quick and he is the man for England going forward and has been excellent for Chelsea.
"We have struck up a great relationship, since he came from Bolton not only on the pitch but off it too. We do love playing together and he made his debut for England with me.
"But a lot went on with myself and England. I love playing for my country, and I was very proud to do that and captain my country twice. Unfortunately things have changed and moved on, and I am concentrating on playing well and hopefully keeping us top of the league."
