Wilkins: Terry can be greatest Blue

12 April 2012

John Terry has been tipped to eclipse Gianfranco Zola in Chelsea's ultimate hall of fame as the prepare to meet at Stamford Bridge on Sunday as Chelsea entertain West Ham.

West Ham boss Zola was voted Chelsea's greatest player by fans but assistant coach Ray Wilkins claims Chelsea and England captain Terry could become the all-time favourite in the future

"If I was to pick one at the club to surpass Zola in the future, I'd say John Terry because he epitomises what we're about," said Wilkins. "He's professional and he's a one-club player."

He added: "I would imagine in 10 years' time when they have their next poll, John will probably be the one that will sit top of the pile.

"When you're a young player you get your eye on one of the seniors and think, 'That's how it's done'.

"That's what John did with Zola, even though he didn't play the same position. He picked up on the professionalism of Zola and thankfully we've got the player we've got now.

"But it's all about opinions, Zola was voted for by a section of supporters that have seen him play, the younger element. He's certainly one of the greatest players that has played at Chelsea, no question.

"I've got two Zola memories. One was when we beat Sunderland 4-0 and he played a pass to Gus Poyet, he just got his foot under the ball and lifted into his path and Gus volleyed it in.

"The second one that just typified the man was the goal against Norwich at the near post. It was slung in and he flipped it back through his legs and it flashed into the net."

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