Jose Mourinho reportedly warned John Terry that his place in the Chelsea starting lineup was under threat prior to taking him off at half time against Manchester City.
The experienced captain was hauled off after 45 minutes in the Blues' heavy 3-0 defeat at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Chelsea boss Mourinho admitted after the game that the decision was purely tactical, rather than forced, as the Premier League champions struggled to cope with quick-thinking Sergio Aguero.
According to The Telegraph, Terry was told by Mourinho last week that he faced being dropped from the side if he did not up his performance from another disappointing showing at home to Swansea City on the opening weekend.
It is claimed that the Portuguese has been concerned with the centre-back's form during pre-season, as well as the opening fixtures of this campaign, which culminated in his high-profile withdrawal.
Terry played every minute of every game as Chelsea stormed to the Premier League title last term.
