Chelsea Football Club News

• Nickname:Blues
• Founded:1905
• Manager:Roberto Di Matteo

• Ground:Stamford Bridge
• Capacity:42,440

Mourinho ends Benni interest

18 Jun 2007 - 09:09:19

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Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has admitted defeat in his bid to sign Benni McCarthy from Blackburn Rovers.

Mourinho was keen to renew acquaintances with the striker he worked with at FC Porto during the Portuguese club's golden spell which resulted in Champions League glory in 2004.

McCarthy netted 18 league goals in his debut season at Ewood Park last term, but will not be moving to Chelsea this summer despite interest from Mourinho.

"Benni had a great first season. He quickly settled into the English game," he told The Sun. "He is the kind of striker every coach wants and I am no exception.

"I've worked with him successfully in the past at FC Porto. I do like Benni.

"I saw the possibility of us reuniting at Chelsea but he has a contract.

"I could tell that he wanted to play for me again because we had a wonderful time together, but Blackburn said he was not for sale and you have to respect that."

Meanwhile, Chelsea's Israel forward Ben Sahar has admitted he is likely to seek a loan move next season in a bid to play some first-team football.

"I am aware of the fact I could be on loan for a few months but then I will return because, for the African Cup of Nations, a couple of strikers will be gone (from Chelsea)," he admitted.