John Terry Slams Referee Mark Clattenburg in Heated UK Baller League Clash: “I’ve Got to Do Your Job for You”
Former Chelsea captain John Terry has reignited his long-standing tension with ex-Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg in a fiery exchange during a recent UK Baller League fixture. Terry, who now manages the six-a-side team 26ers, did not hold back his frustration following what he deemed as poor officiating in a dramatic 3–3 draw against FC RTW.
The match took a chaotic turn after a reckless challenge on one of Terry’s players sparked an on-pitch scuffle. Players from both sides intervened to break up the brawl, but Terry was left fuming when Clattenburg issued only a two-minute suspension — a punishment the Chelsea legend found far too lenient.
Caught on camera by Goal, Terry erupted at the official, shouting:
“There’s no f*g point, I’ve got to do your job for you.”
Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, the 43-year-old former defender didn’t hold back:
“For me, the refs are awful. The refs are terrible, they need to take some responsibility because two of my players are trying to break up fights on the pitch after diabolical tackles.”
“I don’t want to be that person coming on… the players have got to do better, but the refs have got to take responsibility.”
💭 Opinion: Terry’s Passion is Undeniable — But Is It Crossing a Line?
There’s no question that John Terry is a born competitor — his legacy at Chelsea speaks volumes. But managing a side, even in a six-a-side league, calls for a different kind of leadership. While his frustrations with the officiating may be justified, publicly lambasting referees with X-rated language raises questions about respect for the game’s officials — especially when grassroots and semi-pro levels need encouragement, not hostility.
That said, Terry’s comments do highlight a growing concern in smaller leagues: the need for more professional and consistent refereeing, especially as these games gain visibility and attract former top-level stars.
Still, whether you're wearing a captain's armband or holding the whistle, the focus should remain on respect, safety, and sportsmanship — not personal vendettas or emotional outbursts.
One thing’s for sure — Terry’s fire still burns, but balancing that passion with composure might be his biggest challenge yet in this new managerial chapter.