Premier League disqualify Abramovich as a Chelsea director

Premier League chiefs have disqualified Roman Abramovich as a director of crisis club Chelsea. 

The latest development comes as the Blues prepare to host Newcastle tomorrow.

A Premier League statement said: "Following the imposition of sanctions by the UK Government, the Premier League board has disqualified Abramovich as a director of Chelsea Football Club.

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

The Blues have been in limbo since Abramovich's assets were frozen on Thursday — scuppering his plans to sell the club he has owned since 2003.

But applications to purchase the world and European champions can still be made, as long as the Russian oligarch does not profit from any potential sale.

A Government spokesperson said: "The Government is open to a sale of the club and would consider an application for a licence to allow that to happen.

"We are absolutely clear that any such licence would not allow Abramovich to benefit from the sale."

Along with a number of other interested parties, British property developer Nick Candy, 49, remains keen to snap up the team he supports. 

On Friday, his spokesperson said: "We are examining the details of yesterday's announcement and we are still interested in making a bid. 

"Clearly this is a time of great uncertainty for all Chelsea fans. 

"In our view, no one is the owner of a football club — you are the custodian of it for the fans and the community."

Under the terms of the special licence granted by the Government to allow them to keep playing, Chelsea have had a number of restrictions placed on how they operate.  

But Stamford Bridge bigwigs are pushing for certain measures to be reviewed — and have already enjoyed some success. 

According to Sky Sports, Chelsea can now spend a maximum of £900,000 on home matchday costs, up from £500,000, following talks between club officials and the Government.

Travel expenses for away games remain capped at £20,000 but further changes are expected in the coming days. 

The Londoners have also been granted permission to receive prize money from the various competitions they have played in this season. 

Thomas Tuchel's side put the off-field noise to one side earlier this week to pick up a 3-1 win at basement boys Norwich. 

Trevoh Chalobah, Mason Mount and Kai Havertz were on target as the Blues recorded their fourth league win on the spin. 

But they are likely to face a much stiffer challenge when Eddie Howe's resurgent Toon visit the Bridge.