Chelsea Football Club News

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Founded:1905
Manager:Roberto Di Matteo

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Last Game: 19-May-2012 19:45: Bayern Munich
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Chelsea decision next week

08 May 2009 - 11:12:49

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UEFA will decide next week whether to take action against the Chelsea players who confronted the referee following their Champions League exit to Barcelona.

Striker Didier Drogba was incensed after Norwegian referee Tom Henning Ovrebo rejected a number of penalty appeals in their 1-1 semi-final second leg draw with Barcelona on Wednesday which saw the Spanish side progress on the away goals rule.

Drogba had to be restrained by team-mates and club staff after embarking on a post-match rant at Ovrebo, while a host of other players confronted the Norwegian official at full-time.

Midfielder Michael Ballack could also be in trouble after chasing the referee late in the game to remonstrate after he had turned down the fourth penalty appeal of the night, while defender Jose Bosingwa initially labelled the referee 'a thief' before retracting his comments.

Initial reports suggested that UEFA would reveal any punishments on Friday, but a statement has now confirmed that any action will not be taken until they have considered the referee's post-match report next week.

"With regard to the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg between Chelsea FC and FC Barcelona in London on Wednesday, UEFA has received both the referee's and delegate's report," read the statement.

"UEFA is currently examining those reports, as well as gathering additional evidence. It will decide which action to take in the course of next week."

Meanwhile, Drogba has apologised for verbally abusing the referee.

The Ivory Coast striker issued an apology via the club's official website, saying: "In the heat of the moment I let out my huge frustration and disappointment. For that, I apologise.

"I was very upset at what happened during the game. I also fully accept that the language I used did not set a good example for those watching at home, especially children."