Steve McClaren has hailed the courage of England and Chelsea captain John Terry after the defender was knocked unconscious in a sickening accident during Sunday's Carling Cup final win over Arsenal.

Terry was unintentionally kicked in the head by Arsenal midfielder Abou Diaby in the second half of the 2-1 triumph, swallowing his tongue as a result.

However, after being taken to hospital, he was quickly released following a scan and returned to the Millennium Stadium to join in the victory celebrations.

England boss McClaren told Sky Sports: "This shows the kind of person JT is.

"It did not surprise me that after having the scan he recovered and was out of hospital and celebrating with his team [after winning the final].

"He shouldn't have been playing. He was on crutches three days before the game and was doubtful for the Israel game [European Championship qualifier on March 24]..

"With a bang on the head you don't know what kind of injuries are sustained. It is a

worry at the present moment but hopefully he is okay."