Chelsea re-sign Terry until 2012, but is Ballack sticking around?

Defensive stalwart John Terry, despite previous reports of a move out of London, has signed on for another 5 years at Stamford Bridge. Though no real figure was reported, his new contract likely makes him one of the highest paid defenders (if not player) of all-time. Is the man worth it? With Ryan Giggs-like loyalty and a keen form of leadership, I'd have to say yes. You can't quantify influence, respect, or determination. This guy has all of them and he has always wanted to keep himself at Chelsea. From Eurosport.com...

"I hope that the fans can see that we are all trying to build something special here, both for now and for the future, and I want to be a part of that.

"I have been at Chelsea all my career and have the privilege of being captain. Now it's time to look forward to the new season, which we are all very confident about."

Chief executive Peter Kenyon added: "This is an important day for Chelsea. This was the right deal for us and for John.

"As a club we are committed to try and keep our players together on long term deals and this was a natural progression from last season when other players also committed themselves for the long term.

"As captain, John is clearly a key player for Chelsea and also a great symbol of the club so naturally we are pleased this has been agreed."

This "building something special", however, might have to come without oft-injured and fading German midfielder Michael Ballack. But is he fading? Or is it lack of playing time and consistency of health? Either way, new Real Madrid coach Bernd Schuster is looking to bring his talent to the Bernabeu. Let him go, Jose. You rarely play him anyway. And remember...you said you'd calm down.