CHELSEA FLOGGED

Last updated : 02 July 2003 By Editor

Ken Bates last night sold Chelsea to a Russian Oil tycoon Roman Abramovich. The deal, which has been reported as only £59 million, was secretly negotiated and finalised last night. Captain Birdseye is expected to carry on as chairman.

He said in a statement: "This is a great deal for Chelsea Village, the club and its fans,"

"In today's highly competitive football market, the club will benefit from a new owner with deeper pockets to move Chelsea to the next level.

"I look forward to working with Roman Abramovich to achieve even greater things."

Cue influx of Russian players at Stamford Bridge perhaps.