Chelsea release 155-word statement after Roman Abramovich is banned from selling club and demand talks with Government

CHELSEA have released a short statement after Russian owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK Government.

Abramovich had his assets frozen as a result of his ties to Russian president Vladimir Putin.

Chelsea are unable to sell home or away match tickets, buy, sell or extend players' contracts and cannot sell merchandise - forcing the club shop to shut.

The Blues can, however, sell food and drink on matchdays.

read: "By virtue of his 100 per cent ownership of Chelsea FC plc and affiliated entities, Chelsea FC would normally be subject to the same sanctions regime as Mr Abramovich.

"However, the UK Government has issued a general licence that permits Chelsea FC to continue certain activities.

"We will fulfil our men’s and women’s team fixtures today against Norwich and West Ham, respectively, and intend to engage in discussions with the UK Government regarding the scope of the licence.

"This will include seeking permission for the licence to be amended in order to allow the Club to operate as normal as possible.

"We will also be seeking guidance from the UK Government on the impact of these measures on the Chelsea Foundation and its important work in our communities.

"The Club will update further when it is appropriate to do so."

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The club could also potentially lose out on tens of millions in sponsorship deals.

Shirt sponsors Three are 'reviewing' their commercial partnership with the club.

Chelsea could lose their £40million-a-year sponsorship deal with telecommunications company.

Official Chelsea partners Zapp are also reviewing their partnership with the club.

It comes as:

• LIVE: The very latest from Stamford Bridge
• Chelsea owner Abramovich is sanctioned by UK Government
• Q&A: What does it all mean for The Blues?
• Chelsea CAN still be sold with buyers 'keen'
• Club at threat of POINTS DEDUCTION
• Sponsors are getting jittery - including Three
• Chelsea are banned from selling match tickets
• Club slapped with transfer ban and giving out contracts
• Tonight's game against Norwich is ON despite the drama
• Chelsea can only earn money from food and drink
• Strict travel budget means ban on private jets to away games
• FIVE players are now certain to leave in summer
• FAN'S VIEW: We shouldn't be punished because of Roman