Three QPR players give race row evidence against John Terry

Allegations over whether or not Chelsea and England captain John Terry racially abused Anton Ferdinand deepened last night as it emerged that three QPR players have given statements against the Blues star.

In recent days QPR have pledged their unequivocal support for Ferdinand, while the FA is to conduct enquiries into the alleged incident from last weekend's Premier League action.

However, the Daily Mail has this morning revealed that Clint Hill, Paddy Kenny and Shaun Derry have all given statement that contradict Terry's version of events. The incident in question occured when an agitated Terry exclaimed in Ferdinand's direction following a referee's decision.

Football fans that have studied the video footage believe that Terry said "Anton you f***ing black c***... f***ing nobhead". Terry muddied the waters somewhat on Saturday by stating "I thought Anton was accusing me of using a racist slur against him. I responded aggressively, saying that I never used that term."

However, the three QPR players that have given a conflicting version of events have apparently said that no such accusation by Ferdinand was made throughout the game. The Mail also claims that Terry has tried to contact Anton and his Manchester United brother Rio via phone, but to no avail.

Terry's main defence right now is that he spoke to Anton straight after the 1-0 defeat in the Chelsea dressing room, and that his teammates Florent Malouda and Ashley Cole were present during the conversation.

However, if the 30-year-old is found guilty following the FA enquiry, he could face the unprecendented ignominy of being stripped of the English captain's armband twice in the space of two years.