John Terry has snapped back at Labour MP Chris Bryant after he called for the former Chelsea captain to take down a tweet praising outgoing owner Roman Abramovich.
Terry, who became Chelsea’s most successful captain during the Russian’s reign as owner, labelled Abramovich “the best” with a picture of the pair holding one of the five Premier League trophies he lifted.
He also sent a message in tribute to the 55-year-old saying: “Thank you Roman. The best owner in the world.”
Bryant has been a vocal critic of Abramovich and has called on the UK government to impose sanctions on him due to his relationship with Vladimir Putin.
Abramovich has denied any links with the Russian president, who is under growing pressure after launching last week’s invasion of Ukraine.
In response to Terry’s tweet, the Member of Parliament for Rhondda said: “This is appalling. I think John Terry you should take this down ASAP.
“The people of Ukraine are being bombed, shelled and murdered while you celebrate Abramovich.”
And in response to a message of support from a fan, Terry has continued the war of words, citing Bryant’s voting record and his part in the 2009 expenses scandal.
“The same MP that claimed fortunes in expenses of the taxpayers' money. Also the same MP who voted that we invade Iraq,” Terry posted in response.
Earlier on Saturday morning, Terry had shared a post from his former club Aston Villa, who posted an image of their badge set upon the Ukraine flag with the caption “Solidarity with Ukraine”.
The club’s former skipper and assistant manager, quoted the original tweet with a blue heart emoji, Ukraine flag and applause symbol.
Abramovich has confirmed his intention to sell the club, but the calls for sanctions to be imposed have increased with Prime Minister Boris Johnson forced to address the situation.
“None of us want to live in a country where the state can take your house off you without a very high burden of proof and due process,” he said.
“There’s no point saying, yeah, we’re going to go after him, and then you come up against the brick wall of lawyers. So we have to get it right. We’re also trying not to just make this about one individual.”
As many as 10 parties are believed to be interested in purchasing Chelsea from Abramovich, who is believed to be looking for around £3billion.
An American-Swiss consortium headed by Todd Boehly is believed to be preparing an offer, while Turkish billionaire Mushin Bayrak is reportedly in talks.
