Jose Mourinho: 'John Terry's new contract is not a thank you, he deserves it'

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has insisted that John Terry's new contract has not come as a gesture of gratitude, but because he deserves to remain at the club.

The Blues captain has been a regular part of the team's defence and his performances this season have been rewarded with a new one-year deal.

The 34-year-old, whose contract will expire at the end of the 2015-16 campaign, has won 13 major trophies, including the Champions League and the Premier League title three times, during his career at Stamford Bridge.

"This new contract is not to say 'thank you very much', it is because John continues to perform," Mourinho told the club's official website. "He is a top defender. I am happy that he completely deserves this new contract after a season where he has already played 40 matches."

Terry is on course to lift the league title again this season as Chelsea currently have a six-point lead at the top.