Terry to deny race abuse as trial gets underway
ENGLAND and Chelsea captain John Terry is expected to enter a not guilty plea today when his racial abuse case goes before West London Magistrates Court.
Terry, who denies the charge relating to an alleged exchange with QPR defender Anton Ferdinand, is not likely to appear in person.
It is anticipated that the case will be opened and swiftly adjourned until a later date, increasing the danger it could affect Terry’s availability for June’s European Championships.
Terry is accused of a racially aggravated public order offence, which, if he is found guilty, carries a maximum punishment of a £2,500 fine.
The 31-year-old was charged in December, following an investigation into events during Chelsea’s 1-0 Premier League defeat at QPR on 23 October. Terry did not play last night as Chelsea drew 1-1 at Swansea.