Mark Hughes refused to add to the pressure on Anton Ferdinand to shake John Terry’s hand before QPR’s FA Cup clash with Chelsea, after Andre Villas-Boas claimed it was “extremely important” he did so.

Rangers boss Hughes said it was entirely Ferdinand’s decision whether to snub Terry during the pre-match handshake prior to Saturday’s west London derby at Loftus Road.

Ferdinand is reportedly agonising over whether shaking Terry’s hand could be seen as hypocritical amid claims he has been advised by Rangers that to do so would be the best course of action, but Hughes said: “If he feels it is not appropriate, that has to be his own decision. It won’t be influenced by myself or the club.”

Chelsea manager Villas-Boas hoped and expected Ferdinand would accept Terry’s hand, despite the latter having been charged with racially abusing his fellow defender, a charge the England captain denies.

Asked if it was important Ferdinand did shake Terry’s hand, Villas-Boas said: “Extremely important, extremely important.”

He added: “This game is based on good values more than anything else. These players should continue to promote these good values.”

Villas-Boas confirmed the matter had been discussed with Terry, who looks certain to offer his hand to Ferdinand.

The Chelsea boss said: “Everybody has been having conversations, from the top, to the players, to the manager.”

The game sees the players square off for the first time since allegations emerged that Terry had used a racist slur against Ferdinand during October’s Barclays Premier League match at Loftus Road.

The cup tie also comes four days before Terry is expected to enter a not-guilty plea at Westminster Magistrates Court, having repeatedly denied the charge against him.