Terry won't appeal racial abuse charge

Chelsea defender John Terry has decided not to appeal against a four-match ban and fine of £220,000 (€270,000) for racially abusing QPR defender Anton Ferdinand.

Terry had until 6pm this evening to contest the sanction issued by an independent Football Association regulatory commission.

However, in a statement released via his representatives Elite Management, Terry said: “After careful consideration, I have decided not to appeal against the FA judgment.

“I want to take this opportunity to apologise to everyone for the language I used in the game against Queens Park Rangers last October.

“Although I’m disappointed with the FA judgment, I accept that the language I used, regardless of the context, is not acceptable on the football field or indeed in any walk of life.”