• Euro 2012

Hodgson hails 'warrior' Terry

ESPN staff
June 11, 2012
John Terry is seen as a key figure in the England squad by Roy Hodgson © PA Photos
Enlarge

Roy Hodgson is pinning his faith on John Terry leading the England defence in to battle against France at Euro 2012.

Terry has been nursing a hamstring complaint in the past week, but he proved his fitness during a couple of intense training sessions. Off-field controversy - Terry will be facing a court case in July for the alleged racial abuse of Anton Ferdinand - has also dogged the Chelsea defender but Hodgson is backing the 31-year-old to show his "warrior" qualities.

"We all know John's qualities," the England manager said. "We all know what a centre-half he is and what a warrior he is.

"We also know he is a player capable of taking others with him, not least his team-mate Ashley Cole.

"I just hope John will show in this tournament all the qualities I have seen him show over many years with England.

"I'm convinced that he is very determined to show these qualities. He feels this is a great opportunity to show the very best of what he can do.

"Once again he is coming off the back of a very good season with Chelsea. That was especially true towards the end when he played a major part in them getting to the Champions League final - even though he couldn't play in the game."

With Frank Lampard missing out due to injury, Hodgson is backing Terry and skipper Steven Gerrard to impart their tournament experience on the younger members of the squad.

He added: "They have been involved in many tournaments and also in big games with their club sides at the very highest level."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices