JOHN TERRY’S career in Britain could effectively be ended by magistrates if he is found guilty of a racist offence at the end of what could be a six-month legal process.
Since 1999, upon conviction of a disorder offence at a football ground, the court has been duty-bound by law to consider a Football Banning Order.
Such an act would prevent Terry, 31, from even attending a football ground for a minimum of three years.
Significantly, the FA have spoken out strongly in favour of such banning orders in the past for those convicted of racist crimes at football matches.
Yesterday, a spokesman confirmed that was still their stance where spectators were concerned. Chelsea defender Terry vehemently denies the charge and is adamant that he will “clear his name as quickly as possible” having been given a date for a first hearing at West London Magistrates Court on February 1.
Experts say a banning order is unlikely as it is liable to be challenged under a restraint of trade action. Yet it will not be brushed under the carpet. If the magistrates do decide not to go down that line, they “must in open court state that fact and give reasons”.
