AVB: Ferdinand should shake hands with Terry
Friday, 27 January 2012 17:02Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has insisted QPR's Anton Ferdinand should shake hands with John Terry before Saturday's FA Cup clash at Loftus Road.
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Villas-Boas said he hoped and expected Ferdinand not to snub Terry, despite allegations the Rangers defender was the victim of a racist slur from the England captain during October's Barclays Premier League game between the sides.
The players square off tomorrow for the first time since then, and just four days before the court case begins in which Terry stands accused of abusing Ferdinand.
Ferdinand is reportedly agonising over whether to shake Terry's hand before tomorrow's match, amid fears it could be viewed as hypocritical.
Asked if it was important he did so, Villas-Boas said: "Extremely important, extremely important."
He added: "This game is based on good values more than anything else.
"These players should continue to promote these good values."
Villas-Boas confirmed the matter had been discussed with Terry, who denies having racially abused Ferdinand.
The Chelsea boss said: "Everybody has been having conversations, from the top, to the players, to the manager."
Villas-Boas reiterated he would not consider leaving out Terry and said he had not felt the need to check on his frame of mind this week.
"No, not at all," he said.
"I have to count on the player, and the player is fit and available for the game."
He also revealed he had no plans to issue special instructions to his players reminding them to stay calm amid what is likely to be a hostile atmosphere tomorrow.
Admitting there were "extra responsibilities" to consider, he added: "I won't speak to the players specifically about that before the game, not at all."
Supporters from both sides were this week warned about their conduct tomorrow and Villas-Boas predicted there would not be any problems at Loftus Road.
He said: "The environment was outstanding the last time we played there at Loftus Road, so I expect it to be the same."
Meanwhile, QPR boss Mark Hughes commented: "If he feels it (a handshake) is not appropriate, that has to be his own decision. It won't be influenced by myself or the club."
