Former Chelsea skipper John Terry has revealed why it was a “nightmare” playing at Anfield – but admits the Champions League semi-final of 2005 was the best atmosphere he has ever played in.
Terry, 37, led Chelsea to the Premier League title last season- the club’s 5th in history- under the guidance of manager Antonio Conte. But the reluctance to play against Chelsea, whom he enjoyed a 22-year association with, became one of the major reasons for dropping down to Championship and joining Aston Villa to work under long-time friend, Steve Bruce.
The solid defender was a part of the Chelsea side that enjoyed an intense rivalry with Liverpool in both domestic and European circuit during the Rafael Benitez era. Between 2005 and 2009, Chelsea and Liverpool crossed swords eight times in the Champions League as well as facing off in a League Cup final and an FA Cup semi-final.
Terry has acknowledged how uncomfortable the Kopites made it for the Blues at Anfield given their raucous home support.
“Going to Anfield was horrible,” Terry admitted on Monday Night Football, as reported by the Mirror.
“The atmosphere: you would drive from the hotel, a 30-minute bus ride and they were all on the streets, winding you up, and throwing stuff at the bus.
“It was a nightmare. It was the worst and the best ground to go to. You didn’t fear going there.
“You look forward to going there, you look forward to the big games and big nights. The Champions League game in 2005 is probably the best atmosphere I’ve ever played in,” he added.
If the Reds were the toughest team Terry faced, the former England skipper admits former Arsenal star Thierry Henry was the best ever striker he faced during his time at Stamford Bridge.
“Henry was my most feared striker [I played against],” added Terry. “He was terrifying. He was the best by far.
“He had everything, the movement. He was incredible. He would be the one before games, I’d say, ‘it’s going to be tough tomorrow.’ Nobody else did that.”
Terry, the Villa skipper is currently injured since breaking the fifth metatarsal in his left foot during the 2-1 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday at the beginning of November.
On the behalf of all Chelsea fans, I wish you a speedy recovery, John Terry!