London: England and Chelsea captain John Terry is preparing to take to the pitch after being told he will be prosecuted for racially abusing language towards Queens Park Rangers defender Anton Ferdinand.
The 31-year-old defender, who has been absent from training with Chelsea in recent days after suffering an Achilles problem, has been included in the squad for a London derby against Tottenham Hotspur tonight at White Hart Lane.
Terry learned he faces criminal charges over video footage appearing to show him shout an offensive comment at Ferdinand.
Chief London prosecutor Alison Saunders told police there was a realistic possibility of conviction surrounding claims Terry called Ferdinand a “black c***” during a league match.
He faces a maximum fine of £2,500 if convicted, said he was “disappointed” as the Crown Prosecution Service announced he would appear before magistrates in February accused of a racially-aggravated public order offence.
Terry, whose future as a leading international player is in doubt, added he would fight “tooth and nail” to prove his innocence, adding: “I have campaigned against racism and believe there is no place for it in society.”
He said: “I am disappointed with the decision to charge me and hope to be given the chance to clear my name as quickly as possible.”
Terry is one of the most decorated English players in the modern domestic game, having led west London’s Chelsea FC to a string of trophies and league titles.
Chelsea FC said in a statement that it would continue to be “fully supportive” of Terry.
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