Former Chelsea defender John Terry has embarked on a career in running a football club after enrolling on a FIFA diploma course for club executives.

After retiring from the sport in 2018 following a brief spell with Aston Villa, Terry has set his sights on executive work within the game.

The former England captain joins a number of ex-professionals looking to make their name in the burgeoning business side of the sport including Fernandinho, Juan Mata and Tim Cahill.

Speaking to The Times, Cahill explained what prompted him to continue his football education:

‘It’s important for me to continue my education with executives that work in football globally and to share our experiences,

‘Since retiring, I’ve always wanted to keep on learning, to continue my education and be ready for what comes next, and I believe that being part of the club management diploma will help me out significantly in that process.’

Terry is set to join the second edition of FIFA’s diploma in club management alongside Fabio Cannavaro and Philippe Senderos following the inaugural edition of the course that was held last year.

The Chelsea legend’s initial stated ambition after he called time on his legendary playing career was join his former England teammates Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard into management.

Following his retirement Terry joined Dean Smith at Aston Villa as his assistant, and remained at the club for three years before departing the role in July of last year.

Since then, the 41-year-old has returned to Stamford Bridge to work as a coaching consultant for the club’s academy.