John Terry is "most important player" at Chelsea - Carlo Ancelotti delight at defender's decision

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti praised his team's victory over Club America - but was even happier that captain John Terry has pledged his future to the club.

Ancelotti, who rested Terry and several regulars last night, said: "Terry is the most important player at the team, not only for the other players but as a man and for his professioanlism.

"We are very happy to have him here, not only me but all the club is happy. And, I think, John Terry is also happy to stay in this club also. But I was always sure (that he would stay) because he has a contract with the club. It's good news and this is a good evening for us, all round."

"We played this game at the right moment. We did 10 days in Cobham in London, working hard, and now was the moment to play. We played well in America, we have improved the team, we grew and we are ready to start the

season now."

Chelsea's win clinched the World Football Challenge tournament after their third straight win, having also beaten Seattle Sounders in a friendly.

Ancelotti added: "I hope this will be the first of many trophies. It's not so important, but it is important.

We worked very well in this pre-season and now we're ready to start winning other trophies."

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