Terry breaks his toe, but set to become highest-paid player

JOHN TERRY has reportedly suffered a broken toe during Chelsea’s 1-0 win against the Suwon Bluewings in California.

The Chelsea and England captain is said to have played on after picking up the injury and came off at half-time in the match against the Korean side at the Home Depot Center in Carson.

His substitution at the interval appeared to have been planned as manager Jose Mourinho used 22 players during the game in order to give them all 45 minutes each. But, according to reports, the 26-year-old had a pain-killing injection and underwent scans, and is doubtful for the game against the Los Angeles Galaxy tomorrow in which David Beckham could make his American debut.

Terry has suffered a number of injuries this year and his back injury at the turn of the year was key as Chelsea lost ground on Manchester United in the Premier League title race.

England manager Steve McClaren will monitor Terry’s progress ahead of the Euro 2008 qualifiers this autumn.

Terry is reportedly on the brink of agreeing a new contract with the Stamford Bridge club.

He had said he was confident an agreement could be reached despite negotiations supposedly having stalled over the central defender’s wage demands. However, it has been reported that a deal has been reached which would make Terry the highest paid player in England.

Meanwhile, midfielder Joe Cole believes a return to the system that saw Chelsea claim successive Premier League titles will pay dividends.

Mourinho was keen to use two wingers at every opportunity during his first two seasons in charge of the Blues before injuries forced a rethink last term as they lost their Premier League crown to Manchester United.

But the recent arrival of Florent Malouda from Lyon will seemingly herald a return to the formation that brought so much success to Stamford Bridge.

With even more competition for places in Chelsea’s crowded midfield after the summer arrivals of Malouda and Steve Sidwell, the 25-year-old is banking on his versatility to give him an edge in the battle for a starting berth. Having lost a large chunk of last season to injury, Cole insists he is fully fit.

“I’m looking forward to the season. It’s the first time I’ve felt 100% fit for over a year now,” he said.

“We’ve had about 11 training sessions, including games, two 45 minutes... I’ve felt quite good out there but by the time the season starts we’ll be firing on all cylinders. We’re having a good, long pre-season this year.”