Cole: Terry will be missed more than Chelsea realise

John Terry is already out of the door at Stamford Bridge and looks set to be closing in on a move to either Aston Villa or Birmingham in the Championship.

But former Chelsea star Joe Cole reckons his former club might not realise what they had until it is gone, due to the 36-year-old’s massive presence for the Blues.

Attacking midfielder Cole, 35, spent seven seasons at Chelsea alongside then skipper Terry, where the pair were part of the dominant side that won three Premier League titles, three FA Cups, two League Cups, and came within a kick of winning the Champions League.

And after a 19-year relationship with the south-west Londoners, Cole is under no illusions that Terry will leave behind a big hole at Stamford Bridge.

“He is the greatest captain in the club’s history, that’s for sure,” he said.

“It is going to be a big miss for the club, I am sure the people will have an idea of what they can do to replace him but he might be one of those players that you don’t realise the void until he is gone.

“It is going to be tough to replace him. He has had a magic career. He has got many good years ahead of him, I am sure. He is one of the greatest, for sure.

“Time will be kind on JT, what he has achieved and his longevity as well. He is one of the greats – a top, top player.

“On the ball he was brilliant, he could play with both feet, his organisation [was great].

“You ask any striker who has played against him and it was a complete nightmare for them. He has a great understanding of the game.

“You don’t get into that category that he has put himself in without having all the aspects that you need. He will go down as a true warrior. Someone who made players around him better so I can’t speak highly enough of him and what he has done.”