Chelseas Terry hits back at PR claims that he is touting himself for business
27 Nov 2009 - 22:29:59
An embarrassed John Terry last night attempted to distance himself from a bid to cash in on his England captaincy ahead of next summer's World Cup finals.
Sportsmail revealed yesterday that a PR company appointed by Terry's agents had contacted businesses touting for commercial endorsements.
Riviera Entertainment offered businesses the chance to boost their profile by being associated with the England captain.
Enlarge Gaffe: The email circulated by Riviera Entertainment
It boasted he was a 'British sporting hero, football icon, formerdad of the year and one of the most influential people in the world'.The Chelsea skipper claimed he had no knowledge of the sponsorship move, but Sportsmail has discovered that he has a commercial relationship with the company.
Terry, who earns £170,000 a week at Chelsea, was forced to release astatement last night confirming the story, but claiming he had notapproved the approaches.
He said: 'An email inviting commercial endorsements for me has beenpublished. This email was sent without my authority or knowledge andwas not approved by me (or those advising me).'
Dad of the Year: Terry with his son in 2007
Elite management, who look after Terry's affairs, appointed Riviera to identify suitable commercial endorsements.
In a news release on Riviera's official website, Terry was quoted assaying: 'Elite are in control of my marketing and promotional rightsand they have identified Riviera as an ideal partner.'
Family man: Terry (right) and his wife Toni at Joe Cole's wedding
Russell Edwards, Riviera's commercial manager who played withTerry's agent Paul Nicholls at Chelmsford City, said at the time: 'JohnTerry has a great deal to offer and we already have companies on ourbooks that are interested in such a high-profile brand ambassador.'
FIFA and Chelsea will be less than happy after the company used the official World Cup logo plus pictures of Terry in Chelsea strip.
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