John Terry and Anton Ferdinand met at Wembley as the Chelsea captain’s Football Association disciplinary hearing over allegations he racially abused the Queens Park Rangers defender started yesterday.
Ferdinand gave evidence to the independent panel at the hearing, with Terry in attendance to hear the case against him.
Defender Terry, who dramatically announced his retirement from international football on Sunday, effectively accused the FA of forcing his hand after the governing body pressed on with charges that he racially abused Ferdinand in October.
Terry, who has always denied using a racist slur against his opponent, was found not guilty in a criminal case relating to the incident in a London court in July.
Ferdinand was at Wembley all morning, leaving shortly before midday, while Terry – who will reportedly return today – left near 3 p.m. local time (1400GMT).
The case could last most of the week.
England manager Roy Hodgson said yesterday that he had “reluctantly” accepted John Terry’s decision to call time on his international career, as the centre-back contested a FA racism charge.
Despite the controversy, Hodgson picked Terry in his squad for the European Championship in June and wanted to have the 31-year-old involved in England’s bid to qualify for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
“I’d like to thank John Terry for his commitment to the England team since I became manager,” said Hodgson. “I am of course disappointed to lose a player of John’s international experience and exceptional ability.
“I have enjoyed a good relationship with John during my time as England manager and I reluctantly accept his decision. I can also confirm that he had the courtesy to call me prior to the announcement of his retirement from the England team.
“I’d like to wish John well for the future with Chelsea.”
In a separate statement, the FA thanked Terry for his England service.
“Following his announcement that he is retiring from the England team, the FA would like to thank John Terry for all of his efforts with the national team over the past decade,” read a FA statement .
“During his 78 appearances, John has always given his full commitment to the team.”