John Terry has again reiterated his desire to stay at Aston Villa beyond the end of the season should the club earn promotion back to the Premier League.
Villa are well in the hunt for promotion, with Steve Bruce’s side finishing the season in fourth and now preparing for a play-off campaign.
Terry has captained Villa throughout the campaign, making 32 Sky Bet Championship appearances and playing a crucial role in helping the club into promotion contention.
The 37-year-old’s contract expires in the summer, but he has reiterated his desire to play on beyond the end of the season, should Villa achieve promotion back to the Premier League.
Speaking in-depth to Villa’s official YouTube channel, Terry said: “I hope this isn't the end. If we go up, I'm staying, and hopefully can play for a few more years in the Premier League.
“It's only fair that if we go up, which is the belief within the group, that I stick around. It's in my contract when I hit a number of matches.”
The ex-England and Chelsea captain will be expected to make his 33rd league appearance this weekend, when Villa take on Middlesbrough in the first-leg of their play-off semi-final.
Villa travel to the Riverside Stadium on Saturday evening, with the return leg taking place at Villa Park on Tuesday.
The Verdict
Terry has been phenomenal for Villa this season, with his winning mentality rubbing off on Bruce’s entire squad.
Should Villa be heading to the Premier League over the summer, a figure like Terry, who has won everything at club level, would be huge.
Before that, however, Terry’s role in the play-offs is going to be a big one.
Villa fans… Let us know your thoughts on Terry!