John Terry as good as ever, says Mourinho
Heading into a stern test against Southampton, Chelsea boss praises his captain for giving a masterclass in defence to help the Blues stay on top
Former England captain John Terry is performing as well in the central defence as he was a decade ago, according to Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho.
Terry scored for the second time in five days when his first-half goal, the 61st of his club career, paved the way for Premier League leaders Chelsea to beat London rivals West Ham United 2-0 on Boxing Day.
Just as pleasing for Mourinho, the 34-year-old gave a masterclass in the art of defending as he subdued West Ham’s in-form striker Andy Carroll. “He is full of confidence,” Mourinho said after Chelsea kept their 100 per cent home record in the league this season to stay three points clear at the top.
I see my John [Terry] of 2004, 2005 and 2006. I don’t see any difference. The only difference is seeing his twins when they go to the training ground
“I see my John of 2004, 2005 and 2006. I don’t see any difference. The only difference is seeing his twins when they go to the training ground. They had only just been born in that period but now they are running around and kicking balls.
“John is playing so good but I always say the same, when the team is playing so well it’s easy for individuals,” the Portuguese added.
Mourinho, who led Chelsea to the league title in 2005 and 2006 and returned for a second stint in charge 18 months ago, said the upbeat mood at Stamford Bridge was in stark contrast to the atmosphere that characterised the end of his time with previous club Real Madrid.
“Our results are good and the players are happy,” he explained. “I’m happy as a coach because the team is playing well.
“I’m happy as a guy because I love my players. It’s important to feel happy with the people that surround me. It’s something I missed for a while.”