Loss of 'great' John Terry a big loss for England says Alan Pardew

John Terry has been backed to continue his England career (Getty Images)

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew believes England have lost a “great” player following John Terry's decision to retire from international football.

The Chelsea defender announced his decision last night on the eve of his Football Association hearing over the alleged racial abuse of QPR defender Anton Ferdinand.

Pardew insisted 31-year-old Terry's decision was his business, but admitted it would have come as a blow to national boss Roy Hodgson.

He said: "That's a personal decision that John has made and I am not going to throw my personal opinion on that.

"I just know for the manager of England, it's a blow because he is a great player and the pool isn't great for English players at the moment and the team.

"That's the tough end for us, but that is a personal decision John has made."

Pardew has on several occasions in the past championed Magpies defender Steven Taylor for a senior call-up, and Terry's departure means there is a vacancy.

However, he believes the timing is not quite right for the 26-year-old, who has only just returned to action from a ruptured Achilles tendon.

Pardew said: "Steven has ambitions to play for England and I think he has a lot of credentials for that.

"But I think it's too early for him at this stage because he is only just back from a long injury.

"Probably Steven needs another good half-season under his belt to be considered for England, I would think."

PA