The Evening Standard's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
John Terry has been named ambassador of football culture of Guangzhou and he celebrated by travelling to the Chinese city.
The Chelsea captain flew off on his JT Captain China Tour of the country on Sunday and he kicked it off by performing keepy-ups with local children in a Nike-sponsored venue. Around 1,000 supporters had arrived to see Terry, who evidently is a more popular figure in China than he is in parts of England.
Later on in the day the 34-year-old travelled around the city, posing for photos with fans at a meet-and-greet session.
The former England captain enjoyed his travels abroad, telling the club website: "I’m delighted to be here out in China meeting the fans. I came to Guangzhou with Chelsea in 2008 and was well aware of the passion these fans have for the game, and I’m really privileged to be able to spend more time here now.
"I was invited over to be an ambassador of football culture for the young kids, and as soon as I heard about it I wanted to come. I’m very honoured to be given the award by the Guangzhou Football Association, and I look forward to building the fan club for myself and Chelsea here."
The Chelsea Foundation partnered with the Guanghzou R&F Football Club in 2013 to provide a football school for more than 200 students aged nine to 12.
