Chelsea: Terry right not to appeal

Chelsea has welcomed John Terry’s decision not to appeal against the FA judgement regarding the racist language he used against QPR defender Anton Ferdinand last October.

Terry had until 6pm on Thursday to lodge an appeal against the four-match ban and £220,000 fine imposed by the an Independent Regulatory Commission, but he decided not to take the matter further and will begin his suspension immediately.

Chelsea had refused to comment on the matter until the end of the legal process, but the club has now broken its silence and has supported Terry’s decision not to appeal, while it has confirmed he has been subjected to further disciplinary action.

“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,” a statement from the Stamford Bridge outfit read.

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.”