When it was revealed that Chelsea had not only selected John Terry for their game against Sunderland, but made him captain as well, it sounded like an appropriate send-off for the retiring defender.
But what nobody saw coming was a ceremonial substitution for the former England international in the 26th minute of the game.
GUARD OF HONOUR DURING THE ACTUAL MATCH KLAXON
— Daniel Storey (@danielstorey85) May 21, 2017
What a player, what a leader, what a servant. John Terry a true Blue in every sense. #CHESUN
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) May 21, 2017
Yes, apparently uninjured, the Blues’ number 26 walked off with a guard of honour ushering him from the field in one of the Premier League final day’s more bizarre events.
Terry says goodbye pic.twitter.com/xrPOWOpA1Y
— Matt McGeehan (@mattmcgeehan) May 21, 2017
26th minute, Cahill replaces John Terry
— Matt Law (@Matt_Law_DT) May 21, 2017
For some it was a fitting end to a legendary football career – Terry has won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups and even a Champions League trophy at Stamford Bridge.
John Terry's magnificent Chelsea career ends after 26 minutes of his final match. A great defender. A real leader. And a winner.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) May 21, 2017
But not everyone was convinced. On the BBC’s Final Score programme, Garth Crooks said: “This is not Hollywood. This is a Premier League fixture… I’m a bit uncomfortable with it to be honest with you.”There will have been some irritated fantasy football managers too, presumably.
John Terry comes off after 26 mins to a rapturous reception – although maybe not from the 19K #FPL bosses that brought him in for #GW38 pic.twitter.com/sFSMc8JVrb
— FPL (@OfficialFPL) May 21, 2017
It seemed a strange decision from the Premier League champions, who won 5-1.
NO. 26 JOHN TERRY IS BEING TAKEN OFF IN THE 26TH MINUTE!
IS THIS REAL LIFE?! pic.twitter.com/3EpsLgeTuN
— Eurosport UK (@Eurosport_UK) May 21, 2017
But as some pointed out, the official time of the substitution was 28 minutes…
I assume the number 28 must be John Terry's lucky number. pic.twitter.com/z9gBDH5LVV
— Jonny Sharples (@JonnyGabriel) May 21, 2017
Looks like he’ll have to play another season to get it right.