Sarri opens door for Terry to return to Chelsea coaching role

Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri has announced that the door is opened for former captain John Terry to return to Stamford Bridge as part of his coaching staff.

The 37-year-old Terry left Stamford Bridge after 22 years' service in June 2017 for a season-long stint with Aston Villa and declined a move to Spartak Moscow this week.

The Blues manager believes Terry still wants to play for another season but insists he will always be welcome at his “home” back at Chelsea.

“The last time I spoke with him he told me that he wants to play for another season,” said Sarri on Friday.

“For sure he will be a point of reference for me, for everybody here.

“It's up to him. If he wants to play for another season I think it's right he tries to play. If he wants to help us, I'm very, very happy.”

As concerns Saturday's visit of Cardiff to Stamford Bridge, Chelsea sit joint top of the Premier League with four wins from the Italian's first four matches in charge.

However, he insists Chelsea cannot yet be considered a serious threat to champions Manchester City or present leaders Liverpool after finishing 30 points off the pace in fifth last season.

“I can answer City or Liverpool, at the moment,” added Sarri on which sides are title contenders.

“We need another step, I think, to be at the same level.

“I think so. I hope not. It's very difficult. The gap was 30 points at the beginning of the season.”