John Terry: Radamel Falcao was the best player I faced last season

Chelsea skipper Terry claims that he was convinced the Colombian was still a great player when the Blues faced Manchester United – Falcao’s previous team – in April.

The former Porto and Atletico Madrid forward’s season-long loan at Old Trafford proved a failure, with Falcao only netting four goals in 29 appearances, but Terry believes the 29-year-old has arrived at Chelsea determined to prove the doubters wrong.

Falcao joined the west London club on a 12-month deal from parent side Monaco and he could make his full Chelsea debut on Sunday in the Community Shield clash with Arsenal at Wembley after Diego Costa suffered yet another hamstring injury on Tuesday.

But Terry is adamant that the Colombian has what it takes to lead the line following the instant impression Falcao made during the Premier League clash at Old Trafford last season.

“Literally after two minutes, he was backing in,” said Terry.

“He did the same to Gary Cahill. The movement as well was excellent. For me, him and Harry Kane were the best players I came up against [last season].

“We had a little tussle on the floor 10 to 15 minutes later. He was up for it, was hungry and his movement and first touch were excellent,” added the former England defender.

“You get that feel as well. You can tell after a couple of minutes [that] it's: “I'll give a bit and he'll give a bit”.

“I just thought he was up for it that day and Gary felt the same. We are delighted to have him here because he's a top, top player.”