Chelsea star hits back at exit talk

CHELSEA defender John Terry insists he has what it takes to continue playing at the top of the game.

 

John Terry is confident over new Chelsea deal

 

Terry is Chelsea's most successful captain, having led them to four league titles, four FA Cups, three League Cups and one Champions League crown since 2004.

But he has been linked with a Stamford Bridge exit in the summer, when the 35-year-old's deal is set to expire, after a disappointing opening half of the season.

The reining Premier League champions find themselves languishing 14th in the table, just six points above the relegation zone after 22 games.

 

And the Daily Mirror claim the Blues have set their sights on Crystal Palace centre-half Scott Dann, 27, as Terry's long-term successor.

But the former England international has brushed aside any concerns he may have lost a yard of pace over the years and is confident he'll sign a new deal.

"I certainly think I'll be here next season," said Terry, who scored an own goal as well as a last-gasp equaliser on Saturday in a 3-3 draw with Everton.

 

John Terry scored a late equaliser against Everton on Saturday

 

"When you get to a certain age, there are a lot of people out there who think 'he's 35, going on 36 and maybe his legs have gone'. But I have never had legs, it's as simple as that.

"I have never been quick all my career. But physically, I probably feel as good as I've ever felt in the last two or three years.

"I'm in the right state of mind. I'm still hungry. I want to win and finish my career here."