Angry skipper Terry slams England critics

"But England is the ultimate. You get picked for England by playing well for your club. England is far bigger than Chelsea, far bigger than Manchester United because you're representing your country and we're all very proud to do it, no one more than me."

Terry is also determined to end fears that his back, which was operated on in 2006, is having a detrimental effect on his career. He added: "I don't understand where all this is coming from, the back is completely fine. I've had no bad responses since the operation and I've been doing exercises since then, which I need to continue doing. But I'm in a fit condition and raring to go. I have just had a stiff back which we can all get."

Terry is hoping to take more of his frustration out on title rivals Liverpool in the League on Sunday, but he admits the Reds have now developed the same characteristics that Chelsea had under former manager Jose Mourinho.

He said: "One thing that has impressed me so far [this season] is they have something we had under Mourinho in that there have been a couple of games where they have not been playing well and you think that will do us and then they have come back scoring late goals. That is something we have to be aware of. They are showing a real determination and belief this year."