Terry still Chelsea’s ‘key figure’ despite Stones pursuit – Sinclair

Former Chelsea defender Frank Sinclair says the club’s pursuit of John Stones does not mean John Terry’s Stamford Bridge career will end any time soon.

Manager Jose Mourinho has made clear Chelsea’s continued interest in Everton’s England defender despite having two bids rejected – and Stones has been touted as the long-term replacement for Terry.

But Terry, 34, played every minute of every Premier League match in last season’s title triumph and remains “vital” to the Blues, according to Sinclair.

“John Terry was exceptional last season and is such a key figure as a player and a captain,” Sinclair told West London Sport.

“He has one more season at the very top before Chelsea will even think about replacing him.

“He could go on for a lot longer than a year and if John Stones joins now it is one for the future.

“Stones is already a very good player so it will cost a lot of money to get him – even more so because he is English and playing for an English team.”

Chelsea are expected to submit another bid for Stones, 21, in the next few days.

Everton manager Roberto Martinez has insisted that the player is not for sale.

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