Antonio Conte has confirmed John Terry will remain as Chelsea’s skipper next season.

The 35-year-old defender had looked certain to leave the club at the end of the season before a late change of heart from the club saw him granted a new contract.

However, question marks remained over whether the captain, leader, legend would retain the armband under new manager Conte.

The former Italy manager used his first press conference as Chelsea manager to put those rumours to bed by insisting Terry is still very much a figurehead at the club.

He said: "John Terry signed a contract as a player, not as a different role.

John Terry honours

4

Premier League

5

FA Cup

1

Champions League

3

League Cup

2

Community Shield

1

Europa League

"He is captain of this team, and a great player with a great personality and charisma. I like to speak with him because he knows the club and the right spirit to play in this club.

"For me he is an important player like the others. All the players know that I will see them in training to choose my starting XI.

“When a player deserves to [play], he will play. He is John Terry, he is the captain of Chelsea and, when he plays or when he doesn't play, he is always the captain.

"All the decisions we take together as a club. I am very pleased that John signed a new deal.

“I spoke with him different times and for me it was the most important thing that John - he was very happy."

Conte gave an impressive performance in his debut press conference, showing a good grasp of English to get Chelsea fans excited about the future of the club.

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