LONDON, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Chelsea skipper John Terry has extended his contract at the club until the end of the 2015-16 season, the English Premier League leaders announced here on Thursday.

The 34-year-old, whose current deal expires at the end of this season, has made more than 550 appearances for the west London club.

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said: "This new contract is not to say 'thank you very much'.

"It is because John continues to perform. He is a top defender."