Chelsea captain John Terry leaves Westminster Magistrates' Cour after not guilty verdict: John Stillwell/PA Wire

John Terry left court without saying a word following the trial at which he was cleared of racially abusing fellow footballer Anton Ferdinand.

The Chelsea skipper jerked his head downward when the verdict was delivered, while relations in the public gallery cheered.

Outside Westminster Magistrates Court, the parents of Queen’s Park Rangers defender Ferdinand refused to comment.

A small group of Chelsea fans cheered Terry, 31, as he left with no stain on his reputation.

Speaking outside Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck said: “Chelsea Football Club notes and, of course, we respect the decision of the magistrate today. We are pleased that John can now put his mind to football and go back to training and do what he’s done for many years.”

The Crown Prosecution Service defended the decision to prosecute the former England captain.

Alison Saunders, chief crown prosecutor for London, said: “The very serious allegation at the heart of this case was one of racial abuse.

“It was our view that this was not ‘banter’ on the football pitch and that the allegation should be judged by a court.

“The Chief Magistrate agreed that Mr Terry had a case to answer, but having heard all of the evidence he acquitted Mr Terry of a racially aggravated offence.

“That is justice being done and we respect the Chief Magistrate’s decision.”