John Terry has been confirmed as the recipient of this year's leading honour at the London Football Awards, reports the London Evening Standard.

The 35-year-old will be recognised for his "outstanding contribution" to London football at the prestigious event, held at Battersea Evolution on March 3.

Bob Wilson, founder of Willow Foundation, the organising charity behind the awards, believes Terry's chequered history away from the pitch should not detract from the dedication and quality he has shown throughout his career.

"People only read the bad publicity about him," Wilson told Standard Sport. "I'm sure it concerns him but the John Terry I know loves football, is desperate to get everything he can out of it and has inspired his team-mates as one of game's finest leaders, comparable with Tony Adams.

"He has always been very humble and gracious with me and he is a hugely deserving winner. Sometimes we get clouded by off-field activities but his commitment to one club for so long is a rare thing in an age when so many footballers fail to show that kind of loyalty.

"His contract expires at the end of the season and it would be a mistake not to give him an extension."