Sam Allardyce wanted former Three Lions and Chelsea defender John Terry to return to the England set-up, according to a report by The Times.


Big Sam made moves to end the skipper exile from the national team but the Football Association did not like such moves.

Allardyce spent just 67 days in his role as the coach before his contract was terminated. When he was unveiled he said casually that he “might have to give him [Terry] a ring” but the report reveal that he actually made serious effort at recalling John Terry after four years away but when he sought the permission of the FA they rejected such moves.

The FA thought recalling the player would start up controversies particularly with the way the player left the team. Since England were keen on rebuilding the team, it would look like a step backwards and the media attention would not help when they were hoping to qualify for the 2018 World Cup.

The former FA Chair Greg Dyke stated that selection issues were the sole prerogative of the current team manager but the report shows a change in policy for the association.

Terry left the team after he was found guilty of racially abusing Anton Ferdinand in 2012. The 36-year old Blues player was banned for four games and many felt he abused his legacy.

Wayne Rooney remained the skipper during Alladyce’s time despite his poor form then. Terry has remained on the sidelines this season under new Chelsea manager Antonio Conte. The current manager of the Three Lions team Gareth Southgate is not planning on recalling him and there are doubts that Chelsea might release him from his deal at the end of the current campaign.