Chelsea club shop closes two hours after Roman Abramovich is sanctioned with no merchandise allowed to be sold
CHELSEA’S club shop CLOSED two hours after Russian owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK government.
Abramovich had his assets frozen due to his connections with Russian president Vladimir Putin.
The club is unable to sell home or away match tickets to their fans.
There is also a ban on any transfers – incoming or outgoing – and new contracts cannot be handed out.
Merchandise cannot be bought or sold and as a result, the club shop at Stamford Bridge closed.
It is unlikely that the store will reopen until a new owner for Chelsea is found.
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Security outside the ground have also blocked the entrance.
A notice sign read: “Due to the latest government announcement this store will be closed today until further notice.”
Chelsea’s off-pitch turmoil could spill onto the pitch, with a nine-point deduction a possibility if the European champions go into administration.
Chelsea effectively have no income except for food and drink sales.
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Were they hit with that punishment today, they would drop to seventh in the Premier League table.
Arsenal, Manchester United, West Ham and Tottenham could all move up one place.
The Blues are five points above the Gunners and six points above fifth placed United.
It comes as:
- LIVE: The very latest from Stamford Bridge
- Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is sanctioned by UK Government and BANNED from selling club
- Q&A: What does it all mean for The Blues?
- Club at threat of POINTS DEDUCTION
- 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