Former skipper Terry retired ahead of the FA hearing which banned him for four games and fined him £220,000 for racially abusing Anton Ferdinand.
By SHAUN CUSTIS
Striker Rooney, 26, said: “John has been fantastic for us, he’s an old-fashioned centre-half, not afraid to get his foot in. He has been great.
“Obviously he has made his decision to retire and we have to respect it.
“But of course he will be a loss to us. Him and Paolo Maldini are probably the two toughest defenders I have played against.”
Chelsea star Terry, 31, has until October 18 to decide whether or not he will appeal against the FA’s punishment.
There are rumours he will accept the fine and ban but sources close to the player last night insisted no decision had been made.
