Chelsea legend John Terry is officially returning to the west London club, but not as a player.

The Blues legend will undertake an academy coach consultancy job four years after he quit for Aston Villa.

Chelsea said: “John Terry is returning to Cobham to begin a coaching consultancy role at the Chelsea Academy.

“The Blues legend will work with our young players and coaching staff in our youth development programme, sharing the vast experience gained from his 20-year playing career and recent spell as assistant coach at Aston Villa.

“As well as delivering on-field coaching, our former club captain will contribute to coaching discussions with colleagues, mentor academy players and support parent dialogue.

“He will begin the role in a part-time capacity at the start of next month.

“This flexibility is beneficial for both John and the academy, as it allows him to continue to develop his own coaching skills alongside other commitments, while being used optimally within our development programme.”

Head of youth development Neil Bath said: “We are delighted to be welcoming John back to Cobham in a role that will involve coaching and mentoring the next generation of young players in our academy.

“It goes without saying that John’s experience in the game, both as a world-class player and more recently as an assistant coach in the Premier League, will be invaluable for everyone in the building.

“He will be a great mentor for our players and a fantastic asset to our coaching staff. We can’t wait for him to get started.”

Terry tweeted: “I’m delighted to announce that I’m coming home, and have taken up a consultancy role @ChelseaFC academy.

“As well as delivering on field coaching sessions I will be involved in coaching discussions and mentoring our academy players.”

Terry’s wife Toni rushed to congratulate him.

She wrote on Instagram: “So proud and happy for you babe. I know how much this means to you.

“To be back at the club you love is so very special.”