John Terry extends Chelsea stay: New contract is not to say 'thank you very much' to captain, says Jose Mourinho

34-year-old will play on at Stamford Bridge next season

Chelsea captain John Terry (GETTY IMAGES)

John Terry has signed a new contract that will see him continue playing at Chelsea next season.

There had been speculation the club's captain might not be offered a new deal and allowed to leave in the same manner as Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole last season.

However his impressive performances this term, in which he's played every minute of every Premier League game despite turning 34 last December, have seen him rewarded with a new deal that runs until the end of the 2015/16 campaign. Manager Jose Mourinho reinforced the message that the new deal was earned by the Chelsea youth product, rather than given to him as a 'thank you'.

"This new contract is not to say “thank you very much”; it is because John continues to perform," said the Chelsea manager.

"He is a top defender. I am happy that he completely deserves this new contract after a season where he has already played 40 matches."

Jose Mourinho and John Terry celebrate with the Capital One Cup (Getty Images)

Terry lifted his 13th major trophy last month after leading the Blues to a Capital One Cup final victory over Tottenham. He says he's keen to add more before he finally stops playing for Chelsea.

"I'm delighted to have signed an extension to my contract with Chelsea.

"After adding another major trophy to my collection this month I hope myself, the players and manager can continue to bring success to our club."

He continued: "Playing for this great club makes me so proud. And as always I would like to thank the fans who have continually supported me."