Terry demands improved deal

The Chelsea defender John Terry has refused to sign a new contract until he is given a wage rise. Terry, who has just been called-up to the England squad but has found talks over a new contract at Stamford Bridge placed on hold, is unhappy that his pay is around half as much as the salaries given to team-mates such as Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Marcel Desailly.

The 22-year-old realises the financial pressures at the club and is not even looking to earn as much as those established internationals. However, as vice-captain, he believes he is still entitled to earn more and used an interview in Chelsea's official matchday programme on Tuesday night to make his feelings clear.

"I'm playing in the team with players who are on more money than me," he said. "I'm not even asking the same but I want to be up there with them. That's all I'm asking for and hopefully things will get sorted out.

"I've got two years left on my contract and I've spoken to the club about a new one. If things are right for me at Chelsea, then I'll sign."