John Terry hit back at his critics after missing England's World Cup qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Belarus with a back injury but then turned out for Chelsea. "People should know what I'm like as a player and as a character," fumed Terry. "It's just disappointing that anyone would question my determination to play for my club or country.

"No one was more gutted than me, as England captain, to walk away from the squad last week and watch them travel to Belarus.

"I did everything to get fit but my back just wasn't right. I have worked hard my whole career not to miss any games. It has been frustrating the last two years because I've picked up a few injuries.

"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.

"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."