The times are difficult, but the spirit is high. After the UK Government decision to freeze Roman Abramovich’s assets in Britain (Chelsea included) due to sanctions towards Russia, the Blues have faced the most difficult situation since the Second World War. The club is under sanctions, which means they have been given a special license which allows the club to continue paying staff and costs for the hosting of matches at Stamford Bridge. However, travel costs for away games have been capped at 26,000 USD per match, which could cause issues for away matches in the Champions League, with Chelsea set to travel to Lille in France next week. They even have problem with game shirts, since the main sponsor ‘Three’ suspended the deal and asked the Blues to remove their sign. Sponsors leaving, contracts expiring, UK government acting as seller…what a chaos at ChelseaThe players and coach Thomas Tuchel have been told to carry on and play regardless, which they did on Thursday, winning against last placed Norwich 3-1. And the German tactician wowed to continue as nothing is happening. “Everybody can be very sure that we focus on us, to keep the attitude and the mentality right on the training ground and within the team. So far we can trust each other and this will not change. As long as we have enough shirts and a bus to drive to the games we will be there and will compete hard. We didn’t cause the situation. In the moment, it seems like business – football-wise – is more or less protected” said Tuchel after the match. The Blues do what they do best on the pitch – sanctions don’t stop them from beating NorwichMason Mount was the man of the match against the Canaries, scoring the second and assisting with the first Chelsea goal, but the England midfielder admitted it’s really not easy to focus on games, when the situation regarding the club is very difficult. “It’s not been easy, of course. We see what’s happening behind the scenes and everything that’s going on – it can be hard to focus. With everything that’s happening off the pitch, for us to stay focused and stay on the ball to win this game, I thought we were brilliant. We just need to focus on what we can do on the pitch – that’s our only goal” said Mount. (1.40) ATLETICO MADRID (4.60) CADIZ (10.5)Chelsea are seven points behind Liverpool and eight clear of fourth-placed Arsenal, although the Gunners have two games in hand on Thomas Tuchel’s side, who host a nine game unbeaten Newcastle on Sunday.
