
John
Terry has turned down a move to Russian side Spartak Moscow for family
reasons.
Sky in Italy reported last week that the former England and Chelsea captain
was in talks over a one-year deal, with the option of an extra 12 months.
Terry - who has two children - underwent a medical in Rome last weekend, but
has now decided against moving to Russia.
In a statement on Instagram, he said: "After considerable thought, I have
decided to decline a contract offer from Spartak Moscow.
"I would like to take the opportunity to thank Spartak and wish them and
their supporters well for the rest of the season. They are an ambitious club
and I have been very impressed with their professionalism.
"But after assessing this move with my family, we've decided this is not the
right move for ourselves at this time. Good luck Spartak."
As a result, Terry remains a free agent after leaving Aston Villa at the end
of last season. The 37-year-old captained the side to the Championship
play-off final, where they were beaten by Fulham.
In an interview with
The Mail, he hinted he could return to Villa
Park, saying: "The manager, players and supporters were incredible with me
but I hate losing and I feel there is unfinished business there."