Chelsea fans have been asked not to chant Abramovich’s name
Chelsea supporters once again chanted Roman Abramovich’s name prior to kick-off in Thursday’s Premier League win at Norwich City.
The Blues owner was sanctioned by the UK government as a result of his close ties to Russian president Vladimir Putin – the 55-year-old is one of several high-profile Russians with interests in the UK who was named in a government report which sees all of their assets frozen.
As a result of the sanctions, Chelsea are banned from offering contracts, buying players and even selling tickets and merchandise.
The chanting comes after fans could be heard singing the name of the Russian oligarch during the minute’s applause at Turf Moor in their game against Burnley last weekend.
Despite the off-field situation, Thomas Tuchel’s men enjoyed a comfortable 3-1 victory over bottom side Norwich, with Trevoh Chalobah, Mason Mount and Kai Havertz all getting on the scoresheet.
Prior to kick-off, Chelsea fans could once again be heard chanting the name of Abramovich – despite the Russian billionaire having just been sanctioned and being asked not to by the club’s Supporters’ Trust.
The chants were drowned out by boos from the home supporters, but the support for the owner was evident.
Chelsea fans chant “Roman Abramovich” before kick-off against Norwich City pic.twitter.com/JMMLwES5gJ
— Football Daily (@footballdaily) March 10, 2022
Chelsea’s victory sees them move eight points ahead of fourth-placed Arsenal, although the Gunners have two games in hand on their London rivals.
Speaking after the match, Tuchel discussed the sanctions imposed by the UK government, one of which includes a limit of £20,000 travel costs for away games.
“As long as we have enough shirts and a bus to drive to the games, we’ll be there and will compete hard,” he said.
“We take it day by day. I didn’t see that coming yesterday and I don’t know what is coming tomorrow.
“Of course, the subject is there, the talks are going on, so there is a certain distraction. The level of impact it has – the news of today is big – in time we don’t know how big.
“We cannot influence it.”
Chelsea – whose main sponsor, Three, temporarily suspended its £40m deal with the club – host in-form Newcastle United on Sunday.
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