Terry denies Makelele´s Mourinho accusation

Chelsea skipper John Terry has denied claims made in former team-mate Claude Makelele’s new autobiography that he had a role in Jose Mourinho’s September 2007 dismissal.

As Chelsea on Saturday attempted to see off Everton in the FA Cup final and win their first trophy since the Portuguese coach left Stamford Bridge, Terry’s lawyers released a statement which read: “It has been claimed that John was in some way involved with the removal of Jose Mourinho as manager.

“This is categorically untrue and there is no foundation in this allegation.

Makelele has alleged in a new autobiography just published in France that Mourinho, whom the Frenchman deemed “untouchable,” and Terry clashed over the latter’s fitness and that Terry then asked for a transfer.

According to Makelele, the club hierarchy, including owner Roman Abramovich, would not countenance Terry leaving with the result that Mourinho had to go instead.

Chelsea reject Makelele’s account.

“This is not a true version of events with regards to the transfer request as there wasn’t one,” a Chelsea spokesman said.

“Nor was the captain responsible for the departure of Jose Mourinho, which was mutually agreed between Jose and the club.”