QPR deny players will give evidence in John Terry racism enquiry

QPR today categorically denied Paddy Kenny, Clint Hill and Shaun Derry had been called to give evidence in the John Terry racism inquiry.

More than one report has suggested the Rangers trio were set to back team-mate Anton Ferdinand's take on his altercation with Chelsea captain Terry during Sunday's west London derby at Loftus Road.

All three are understood to be furious their names have been dragged into the saga, with Derry not even on the field of play when the alleged incident took place.

A QPR spokesman told Press Association Sport: "There is no truth in these stories whatsoever.

"None of the three players have been called to give evidence or will be called to give evidence."

Tuesday night saw the Football Association launch a probe into allegations Terry racially abused Ferdinand towards the end of Chelsea's 1-0 Barclays Premier League defeat at Loftus Road.

The Metropolitan Police were today also still assessing an anonymous complaint from the member of the public.

Terry has firmly denied using a racist slur against Ferdinand after video footage emerged on Sunday showing him uttering what some have interpreted as such.

Terry admitted using the words he was said to have uttered but insisted they came in the form of a denial after Ferdinand accused him of a racist comment.

The camera shot of Terry was obstructed at a crucial juncture by the defender's Chelsea and England team-mate Ashley Cole, who is expected to be a key witness in the investigation.

However, it is understood Ferdinand has told QPR he was entirely unaware of any race row until after Sunday's game, when Terry approached him to clear the air.£

It is this uncertainty which prompted Rangers to refer the matter to the FA in an attempt to clear it up once and for all.

However, racism claims in football are notoriously hard to prove, even when the alleged victim is convinced they were abused.

Terry is set to remain England captain during the FA probe, even if it continues into next month's friendly double-header with Spain and Sweden.

That could prove extremely awkward should Ferdinand's older brother Rio earn an international recall, especially as Terry regained the armband from the Manchester United star after being stripped of it following allegations about an affair with the ex-partner of Wayne Bridge.

Being found guilty of racism would have even more serious consequences both on and off the field for Terry.

As well as a fine and/or suspension, his very international future would be in jeopardy as well as his position as Chelsea captain.

There would also be the threat of criminal prosecution.

PA