No Terry concern for Villas-Boas

Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has hosed down claims John Terry may not be mentally focused enough to start against Arsenal on Saturday.

Terry is been the subject of racism accusations over statements allegedly made to QPR’s Anton Ferdinand during the Blues’ 1-0 defeat at Loftus Road in the English Premier League last Saturday.

When asked whether his captain was ready to lead the side against London rivals Arsenal at Stamford Bridge, however, Villas-Boas was under no doubt over Terry’s state of mind.

“I see no reason why not, not in the sense of his state of mind – never,” Villas-Boas said.

The Blues boss also moved to reassure fans that the situation had not overshadowed his side’s preparation for their match with the Gunners.

“I don’t think, for us, it’s been a distraction,” he said.

“We haven’t lost too much focus on the situation because there is nothing to lose focus on.”

Chelsea had the opportunity to move ahead of Manchester United in to second place in the Premier League after United dropped points to Manchester City, but failed to capitalise after their defeat to QPR.

Villas-Boas will be hoping that his team can return to form and claim all three points against Arsene Wenger’s recently revitalised Gunners side.