Drama overshadows Blues draw
Chelsea moved into the Premier League’s top four after a 0-0 draw against Brighton on Tuesday, but the result was completely overshadowed by the club’s role in derailing the controversial European Super League.
Just before kick-off at Stamford Bridge, it was widely reported that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich had decided to withdraw from the controversial breakaway plan.
Against that dramatic backdrop, Chelsea produced a flat performance, although the draw saw Thomas Tuchel’s side move into fourth place above West Ham on goal difference.
“We talk of nothing else but Super League before the match. I was affected so I think the players were affected,” Tuchel said.
“The situation was not clear. I was informed like you were informed. You have to accept the distraction.
“We tried to create an atmosphere to win the game but could not. We looked mentally tired.”
Chelsea visit West Ham on Saturday in a crucial clash in the race to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
While Stamford Bridge remained empty due to the coronavirus pandemic, around 1,000 fans had staged an angry protest before news of the Super League meltdown broke.
The cheers when Chelsea’s imminent exit became public knowledge were as loud as any that greeted goals from the Blues when their fans were last allowed into the stadium.
Chelsea fans had unfurled banners reading: “RIP Football 1863 - 2021”, “Created by the poor, stolen by the rich”, “We want our cold nights in Stoke” and “Roman do the right thing”
Blue smoke bombs were let off and fans staged a sit-down protest in the road while police attempted to control the crowds.