The Chelsea captain John Terry has signed a one-year contract extension to keep him playing football at Stamford Bridge until the end of next season.
Chelsea defender John Terry Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The Blues lead the English Premier League with nine games to play, and look well on course for domestic glory.
The 34-year-old central defender has made more than 600 appearances for the London club.
His Chelsea career looked like it was coming to an end in the 2012-13 season under former boss Rafa Benitez.
Even under current manager Jose Mourinho, Terry has not been guaranteed first-team football, yet has played some of the best football of his career this season.
One-club-man Terry has a remarkable goal record for a defender, having netted 63 times for Chelsea.
Mourinho says there's no sentiment in the decision to award Terry a fresh deal.
"This new contract is not to say 'thank you very much', it is because John continues to perform," the Portugese says.
"He is a top defender. I am happy that he completely deserves this new contract after a season where he has already played 40 matches."