Defender Terry was cleared of four charges after the incident at a nightclub in Knightsbridge in January, while midfielder Morris was cleared of one charge at the end of a 14-day trial.

Wimbledon's Des Byrne was found guilty of possessing an offensive weapon and fined �2,000 plus costs. All three players were found not guilty of affray.

"We are delighted at the outcome of the trial," Bates said.

"Chelsea Football Club always believed in the innocence of the two players.

"It is unfortunate that the Crown Prosecution Service took eight months to bring a relatively straightforward matter to court.

"Irrespective of the fact that both have been found not guilty, Jody Morris and John Terry have suffered eight months of agony.

"Terry's international career has also been damaged. It is a sad commentary on our criminal justice system.

"The matter is now over. They will return to training tomorrow (Friday) and rejoin our squad and be available for selection as and when the manager wants."

Neither player has appeared for Chelsea yet this season.

Trevor Birch, group chief executive of Chelsea Football Club, said in a statement: "Chelsea FC welcomes the outcome and verdict of the jury.

"We look forward to John Terry and Jody Morris rejoining the Chelsea squad."

England Under-21 defender John Terry left the dock in tears after he was cleared of glassing a nightclub bouncer in the face.

He refused to comment as he posed for photographers outside the court and left his solicitor to speak on his behalf.

Steven Barker, said: "Anyone who saw him give evidence in that witness box will have no doubt of the enormous stress and strain he has been under for the last eight months because of some monstrous allegations that he took a bottle to a bouncer.

"He is extremely relieved and pleased at this verdict, his words were that justice has been done.

"He wants to thank his legal team, Chelsea Football Club and last but not least his family and friends.

"He has been under enormous strain, that is clearly visible on this young man's face.

"Now he wants to get on with what I believe is a glorious career in the game."