Racism scandal makes Terry quit England team

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Published time: September 24, 2012 08:51
Edited time: September 24, 2012 12:51

Former England Football captain John Terry has called time on his international career. He informed ‘Three Lions’ boss Roy Hodgson of his decision in a telephone call on Sunday evening.

The 31 year old faces a Football Association disciplinary hearing charged with using racist language against Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand on Monday.

Terry was cleared of racially abusing Ferdinand in court in July and says the FA's decision to pursue charges against him makes his position “untenable”.

Terry made his England debut in 2003 against Serbia and Montenegro and was initially made captain in 2006. He was one of the team's star performers during recent years, but the end of his international career was mired in controversy.

“I would like to thank the England managers who have selected me for my 78 caps,” Terry said. “I have had great pleasure in sharing that honor with all the players that I've played with.”

“I would like to thank them, the fans and my family for their support and encouragement during my international career. Representing and captaining my country is what I dreamed of as a boy and it has been a truly great honor,” he added.