Chelsea defender John Terry has says he has nothing but respect for Blues manager Antonio Conte.
The Italian dropped the 36-year old in September and did not start him again until Monday night's 4-3 win over Watford.
Terry, who will play his last Premier League match with the Blues against Sunderland on Sunday, says he has no ill feeling towards Conte, but instead holds the 47-year old in high regard.
"He has been brilliant with me," Terry told Sky Sports HQ.
"Leaving me out of the side was probably a tough decision, but he pulled me in his office straight away and was very honest.
"I have never really had the relationship I've had with the manager this year; the honesty, the respect and the communication has been fantastic. As a player that's all you want.
"The manager made it very clear to me that you can work as hard as you want but if the other players are playing well and the team are winning you're not going to get back in.
"I was sitting there hoping the boys did well and kept winning. I've had my time. He has been fantastic and has been great example for me to hopefully add to my coaching."
Source: tribalfootball.com