ohn Terry is trying not to let his shock at the surprise sacking of club manager Luiz Felipe Scolari yesterday cast a shadow over his preparations for England's friendly with Spain in Seville on Wednesday night.

However, the Chelsea skipper is clearly deeply affected by the sudeen removal of the Brazilian from the Stamford Bridge dugout.

"I was very shocked by what's happened," Terry told BBC Sport earlier.

"He had my full support, that's for sure, and I'm sure two or three of the other players would say the same.

"He's a great man but we weren't playing well and that unfortunately falls on his head. Maybe it should have fallen more on us, the players.

"At end of the day it's all about results, and unfortunately for Scolari they didn't come."

Although many England supporters might fear that the situation back home in London could prove a damaging diversion to preparations for what is an important international friendly, Terry insists that being away with England provides him with the perfect distraction to take his mind off the unsettled club situation.

"What's happening back home is at the back of my mind but I am focusing on the game ahead," he added.

"It is a bit of a relief to get away for a couple of days because my main concern should now be England.

"The manager [Fabio Capello] has stressed he wants everyone focused on the game ahead. I want to put in a good performance personally and hopefully the squad can do the same."