Workers paint over graffiti outside Stamford Bridge after fuming Chelsea fans deface hoardings

Posted Sunday, March 13, 2022 by Thesun.co.uk

WORKERS are painting over graffiti outside Stamford Bridge after walls were defaced by angry fans.

The writing read: "Europe is funding the war - not CFC."

Graffiti outside Stamford Bridge read: 'Europe is funding the war - not CFC'

It comes after Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK government, freezing his assets - including Chelsea.

Abramovich had his assets frozen due to Russia's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine and his ties to President Vladimir Putin.

As a result of the sanctions, Chelsea cannot sell home or away match tickets.

Chelsea also cannot buy or sell players, and they cannot renew players' contracts - running the risk of losing three key centre-backs.

The club are also banned from selling merchandise, forcing the club shop at Stamford Bridge to close.

In the meantime, Chelsea have been granted a licence to continue operating, fulfilling their scheduled fixtures.

The football-related activities Chelsea can fulfil also includes paying staff and the running costs of the ground.

It has also been announced that Abramovich BANNED from being director of Chelsea by the Premier League.

A Prem spokesperson said: "Following the imposition of sanctions by the UK Government, the Premier League Board has disqualified Roman Abramovich as a Director of Chelsea Football Club.

"The Board’s decision does not impact on the club’s ability to train and play its fixtures, as set out under the terms of a licence issued by the Government which expires on 31 May 2022."

Under Prem rules, the disqualification would normally trigger the sale of the named individual’s shareholding 'within 28 day.'

But Abramovich has already announced his intention to sell his appointed agents, the US-based Raine Group, having told potential buyers the sale is back on and that they have a deadline of Friday to register their interest.