Conte Praises Terry’s Professionalism In Debut Chelsea Season
Antonio Conte has praised John Terry’s professionalism during his first season as Chelsea boss four years ago.
Conte led Chelsea to the Premier League title in a season that proved to be Terry’s last at Stamford Bridge.
The Italian manager gave limited opportunities to the former England captain, who made just nine top flight appearances as Chelsea were crowned champions of England.
Terry’s influence was best served behind-the-scenes as he played a back-up role to Cesar Azpilicueta, Gary Cahill and David Luiz.
"It was a great privilege for me to be the coach of a Chelsea legend like John Terry," Conte told Sky Sports.
"We are talking about a top man, a really good man and then a top player. He helped me a lot in my first season in and out of the pitch.
"He was very important in the training ground, during the sessions to keep the concentration standards high."
Terry’s last game for Chelsea came in a 5-1 win over Sunderland in the final game of the season, when he was substituted after 26 minutes to signify his famous jersey number.
Conte explained: "He decided he wanted this because 26 was his squad number and for me it was a pleasure to give him this opportunity.
"I will never be able to thank him enough. He was very important for me and our team."
Terry joined Aston Villa to wind down the final year of his career before taking a role as a member of the club’s coaching staff while Conte now works with Italian giants Inter Milan.
