October 28 marks the anniversary of John Terry’s senior debut for Chelsea back in 1998, and the match he took part in turned into a thriller for the Stamford Bridge crowd.
The former club captain enjoyed nearly 20 years as a key player for Chelsea, with his love for the club something he makes no secret of.
Terry has aspirations of managing Chelsea in the future, with teammate Frank Lampard already enjoying two stints in charge of the club.
The Englishman is an inspiration to the youngsters coming through at Cobham, and 27 years ago he was handed his first appearance as a 17-year-old in the League Cup against Aston Villa.
John Terry, 1998
Photo by Hugh Hastings/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
What actually happened in John Terry’s debut for Chelsea 27 years ago
Gianluca Vialli was occupying the role of player-manager at the time, and it was his impact in front of goal that was crucial for them getting a result.
After falling behind, the Italian’s hat-trick helped them towards an eventual 4-1 win. Tore Andre Flo also found the net in the second half, putting them in a position to substitute on Terry late on.
It was still a strong team for the Blues at the time. There were starts for Dennis Wise, Gus Poyet and Vialli, in a game where Wise was sent off late on.
Terry only got four minutes on the pitch, however would not have to wait long before he was given his first start for the club later that season in the FA Cup against Oldham.
17 Year Old John Terry
Photo by Mark Leech/Getty Images
How Chelsea got on in the 1998/99 League Cup
After victory in the final against Middlesbrough the previous season, Chelsea went into the 1998/99 campaign as the defending champions.
The Blues’ 4-1 win over Villa saw them move into the fourth round of the competition, setting them up a marquee tie with Arsenal.
Chelsea would come away with a devastating 5-0 win, however saw their run come to an end at the hands of Wimbledon in the next round.
For Terry though, it was the start of a career which sees him now recognised as arguably the greatest player in the club’s history.