After scoring twice in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-hazard-scores-twice-as-chelsea-thrash-arsenal-in-final-222607">Chelsea's 4-1 win over Arsenal </a>in the Europa League final, Eden Hazard said it was the moment to call time on his magnificent career with the London club to seek new challenges.

The Belgian is widely expected to join Real Madrid and he capped a superb display against Premier League rivals Arsenal by converting from the penalty spot to make it 3-0 before adding the fourth to complete the rout.

"My dream was to play in the Premier League and I did it for seven years.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-final-a-farewell-match-for-maurizio-sarri-eden-hazard-and-petr-cech-222502"> I think it's a goodbye,</a>" Hazard told BT Sport.

Chelsea had broken the deadlock in the 49th minute through former Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud and Hazard created the second goal for substitute Pedro.

"It was good. The first half both teams had a bit of stress because it was a final. But when Olly (Giroud) scored it was the beginning of a great night," Hazard said.

"We played well in the second half. We tried to play our football and we knew we had the players to do that. It is a great trophy to win," he added.

Hazard, 28, joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012 for 32 million pounds ($40.41 million) and won the Europa League in his first season, later winning the Premier League title in 2015 and 2017 as well as one League Cup and one FA Cup.

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'Today we showed this mentality and for the boys, for the manager, the fans and the staff, it is a great trophy to win.’<a href="https://twitter.com/hazardeden10?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HazardEden10</a>'s thoughts... 👇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UELfinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UELfinal</a>
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Real Madrid have not tried to hide their desire to sign the Hazard, with president Florentino Perez admitting this week that he has been chasing his signature for years and expects to land the Belgian this summer.

After scoring twice in Chelsea's 4-1 win over Arsenal in the Europa League final, Eden Hazard said it was the moment to call time on his magnificent career with the London club to seek new challenges.

After scoring twice in Chelsea's 4-1 win over Arsenal in the Europa League final, Eden Hazard said it was the moment to call time on his magnificent career with the London club to seek new challenges. The Belgian is widely expected to join Real Madrid and he capped a superb display against Premier League rivals Arsenal by converting from the penalty spot to make it 3-0 before adding the fourth to complete the rout. "My dream was to play in the Premier League and I did it for seven years. I think it's a goodbye," Hazard told BT Sport. Chelsea had broken the deadlock in the 49th minute through former Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud and Hazard created the second goal for substitute Pedro. "It was good. The first half both teams had a bit of stress because it was a final. But when Olly (Giroud) scored it was the beginning of a great night," Hazard said. "We played well in the second half. We tried to play our football and we knew we had the players to do that. It is a great trophy to win," he added. Hazard, 28, joined Chelsea from Lille in 2012 for 32 million pounds ($40.41 million) and won the Europa League in his first season, later winning the Premier League title in 2015 and 2017 as well as one League Cup and one FA Cup. 'Today we showed this mentality and for the boys, for the manager, the fans and the staff, it is a great trophy to win.’@HazardEden10's thoughts... 👇#UELfinal — Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) May 29, 2019 × Real Madrid have not tried to hide their desire to sign the Hazard, with president Florentino Perez admitting this week that he has been chasing his signature for years and expects to land the Belgian this summer.

'I think it's a goodbye', says Eden Hazard after winning Europa League for Chelsea

Eden Hazard scored twice and created a third to steer Chelsea to a 4-1 victory over London rivals Arsenal in the Europa League final in what looks likely to be the Belgium winger's final game for the Blues.

Chelsea destroyed Arsenal with four second-half goals that handed coach Maurizio Sarri his first major trophy at the age of 60, although that might not be enough to silence the speculation that he could also be leaving Stamford Bridge imminently.

Former Arsenal hero Olivier Giroud and Spain attacker Pedro each got a goal to give Chelsea their third European title in seven years, with the Champions League triumph in 2012 followed by their first Europa League victory in 2013.

Hazard, who joined Chelsea in 2012, looked emotional when he was substituted in the final minutes and held his hands over his eyes to an ovation in Baku's cavernous Olympic Stadium.

The Belgium winger has signalled he wants to move to Real Madrid in the close season.

"My dream was to play in the Premier League and I did it for seven years," Hazard told a television reporter shortly after the final whistle. "Maybe I think it is time to say goodbye.

"We will decide in a few days and the only target in my mind was to win this final. I have made my decision already and now I'm waiting on both clubs. I think it is goodbye, but in football you never know."

After a tepid first half, Giroud put Chelsea ahead in the 49th minute with an angled header.

The Blues doubled their lead 10 minutes later when Pedro diverted a cross from Hazard beyond former Chelsea keeper Petr Cech, who was making his last appearance before retiring as a player.

With Arsenal on the ropes, defender Ainsley Maitland-Niles collided with Giroud to concede a penalty that Hazard stroked home after 65 minutes.

Alex Iwobi clawed a goal back for Arsenal but Chelsea restored their three-goal cushion in the 72nd minute when Hazard swapped passes with Giroud to score his second.

Arsenal have lost five of their six major European finals, with their only victory coming in the 1994 Cup Winners' Cup against Parma.

The defeat in the early hours of Thursday - the final in the Azerbaijan capital kicked off at 11pm local time to coincide with peak viewing time in England - also deprives Arsenal of their last chance to qualify for next season's Champions League.

Chelsea had already made sure of their place in Europe's elite competition by finishing third in the Premier League.

But Arsenal coach Unai Emery is on more solid ground than Chelsea's Sarri who, after one stop-start season at Stamford Bridge, has reportedly been targeted by Juventus back in his native Italy.

"Sarri is a great guy, a great coach and he deserves this," Chelsea defender David Luiz said. "The manager did amazing for this club. I don't know about speculation, now is the time to talk about the title."

Eden Hazard scored twice and created a third to steer Chelsea to a 4-1 victory over London rivals Arsenal in the Europa League final in what looks likely to be the Belgium winger's final game for the Blues.

Eden Hazard scored twice and created a third to steer Chelsea to a 4-1 victory over London rivals Arsenal in the Europa League final in what looks likely to be the Belgium winger's final game for the Blues. Chelsea destroyed Arsenal with four second-half goals that handed coach Maurizio Sarri his first major trophy at the age of 60, although that might not be enough to silence the speculation that he could also be leaving Stamford Bridge imminently. Former Arsenal hero Olivier Giroud and Spain attacker Pedro each got a goal to give Chelsea their third European title in seven years, with the Champions League triumph in 2012 followed by their first Europa League victory in 2013. Hazard, who joined Chelsea in 2012, looked emotional when he was substituted in the final minutes and held his hands over his eyes to an ovation in Baku's cavernous Olympic Stadium. The Belgium winger has signalled he wants to move to Real Madrid in the close season. "My dream was to play in the Premier League and I did it for seven years," Hazard told a television reporter shortly after the final whistle. "Maybe I think it is time to say goodbye. "We will decide in a few days and the only target in my mind was to win this final. I have made my decision already and now I'm waiting on both clubs. I think it is goodbye, but in football you never know." After a tepid first half, Giroud put Chelsea ahead in the 49th minute with an angled header. The Blues doubled their lead 10 minutes later when Pedro diverted a cross from Hazard beyond former Chelsea keeper Petr Cech, who was making his last appearance before retiring as a player. With Arsenal on the ropes, defender Ainsley Maitland-Niles collided with Giroud to concede a penalty that Hazard stroked home after 65 minutes. Alex Iwobi clawed a goal back for Arsenal but Chelsea restored their three-goal cushion in the 72nd minute when Hazard swapped passes with Giroud to score his second. Arsenal have lost five of their six major European finals, with their only victory coming in the 1994 Cup Winners' Cup against Parma. The defeat in the early hours of Thursday - the final in the Azerbaijan capital kicked off at 11pm local time to coincide with peak viewing time in England - also deprives Arsenal of their last chance to qualify for next season's Champions League. Chelsea had already made sure of their place in Europe's elite competition by finishing third in the Premier League. But Arsenal coach Unai Emery is on more solid ground than Chelsea's Sarri who, after one stop-start season at Stamford Bridge, has reportedly been targeted by Juventus back in his native Italy. "Sarri is a great guy, a great coach and he deserves this," Chelsea defender David Luiz said. "The manager did amazing for this club. I don't know about speculation, now is the time to talk about the title."

Europa League: Hazard scores twice as Chelsea thrash Arsenal in final

The build-up to the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/europa-league-how-arsenal-learnt-from-last-seasons-mistake-aubameyang-elaborates-217434&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwijldj9u8DiAhXD6XMBHXoKAWkQFjABegQIDBAB&amp;usg=AOvVaw0FgzyS008r7z8gOphBO585">Europa League final</a> has been marred by the controversy surrounding UEFA's choice of venue, but it is now time for the football to do the talking as familiar foes Chelsea and Arsenal prepare to do battle in the unfamiliar setting of Baku on Wednesday.

Two and a half weeks after the Premier League season ended, here is a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/an-all-english-affair-at-europa-arsenal-chelsea-book-final-berth-217357&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwijldj9u8DiAhXD6XMBHXoKAWkQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2DZ5YeOVDiMJmBKRH0CKRI">London derby</a> exported almost 3,000 miles (5,000 kilometres) to Azerbaijan's capital, by the Caspian Sea.

It is the first leg in a week of European finals dominated by England, with Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur contesting the Champions League showpiece in Madrid on Saturday.

However, there will not be much of an English atmosphere at the Baku Olympic Stadium when the match kicks off at 2300 local time (1900GMT), with reportedly only around 6,000 tickets sold by the clubs in a ground which holds almost 70,000.

The distances and costs involved and the difficulty in getting to Baku have prevented more fans from travelling, while Arsenal are also handicapped by the absence of Henrikh Mkhitaryan.

He decided not to travel because of fears over his safety due to an ongoing political dispute between Azerbaijan and his home country, Armenia.

"It is not in my hands. They have their reason to play here and I must respect this decision," said Arsenal coach Unai Emery on Tuesday.

"Yes, I prefer to play with our supporters here. I'd prefer it if a lot of supporters from us and from Chelsea could come here from London, but it's difficult," Unai added.

Emery's players have promised to try to win the trophy for Mkhitaryan, and the stakes are certainly high for the Gunners.

After finishing fifth in the Premier League, two points behind Chelsea in third and one point behind Tottenham, Arsenal have to win to qualify for next season's Champions League.

"For a club like Arsenal, we have to be in the Champions League. It's an amazing and important game because we want to give us, the fans and the club the Champions League back," said midfielder Granit Xhaka.

Whether that in itself is more important than winning a European trophy is another matter.

The build-up to the Europa League final has been marred by the controversy surrounding UEFA's choice of venue, but it is now time for the football to do the talking as familiar foes Chelsea and Arsenal prepare to do battle in the unfamiliar setting of Baku on Wednesday.

The build-up to the Europa League final has been marred by the controversy surrounding UEFA's choice of venue, but it is now time for the football to do the talking as familiar foes Chelsea and Arsenal prepare to do battle in the unfamiliar setting of Baku on Wednesday. Two and a half weeks after the Premier League season ended, here is a London derby exported almost 3,000 miles (5,000 kilometres) to Azerbaijan's capital, by the Caspian Sea. It is the first leg in a week of European finals dominated by England, with Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur contesting the Champions League showpiece in Madrid on Saturday. However, there will not be much of an English atmosphere at the Baku Olympic Stadium when the match kicks off at 2300 local time (1900GMT), with reportedly only around 6,000 tickets sold by the clubs in a ground which holds almost 70,000. The distances and costs involved and the difficulty in getting to Baku have prevented more fans from travelling, while Arsenal are also handicapped by the absence of Henrikh Mkhitaryan. He decided not to travel because of fears over his safety due to an ongoing political dispute between Azerbaijan and his home country, Armenia. "It is not in my hands. They have their reason to play here and I must respect this decision," said Arsenal coach Unai Emery on Tuesday. "Yes, I prefer to play with our supporters here. I'd prefer it if a lot of supporters from us and from Chelsea could come here from London, but it's difficult," Unai added. Emery's players have promised to try to win the trophy for Mkhitaryan, and the stakes are certainly high for the Gunners. After finishing fifth in the Premier League, two points behind Chelsea in third and one point behind Tottenham, Arsenal have to win to qualify for next season's Champions League. "For a club like Arsenal, we have to be in the Champions League. It's an amazing and important game because we want to give us, the fans and the club the Champions League back," said midfielder Granit Xhaka. Whether that in itself is more important than winning a European trophy is another matter.

Arsenal and Chelsea ready for final Europa League battle in distant Baku

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez confirmed on Monday the club are keen to sign <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelseas-eden-hazard-puts-europa-league-trophy-before-transfer-talk-217496&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwit9a_Tz73iAhX0juYKHcgECMoQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2zUCl_0kt-nydbCr0tzvXf">Eden Hazard</a> this summer and claimed Sergio Ramos has an offer to move to China.

Hazard could play his last match for Chelsea in the Europa League final against Arsenal on Wednesday, with the Belgian's contract expiring next year.

"I have a lot of interest in him coming to Madrid, I'm not going to lie, and I hope this year he can play here," Perez told Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Monday night.

"We have wanted to sign <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-coach-maurizio-sarri-doesnt-want-eden-hazard-to-leave-the-club-220875&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiKu8Xpz73iAhWhguYKHbdHCKQQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0p1khsRb-hh1y_0CaI_f4S">Hazard </a>for several years and I hope he will come this year. Until now we have not achieved it, but this time his contract ends next year," Perez said.

After a disappointing season, Madrid are expected to overhaul their squad this summer and Perez suggested the club's captain Ramos is considering a move.

Ramos and Perez argued after Madrid's Champions League defeat to Ajax in March, with Ramos reportedly telling Perez the team's failings were down to a failure to replace Cristiano Ronaldo.

Perez claimed on Tuesday that Ramos had been offered a move to China but said he had blocked the defender's departure.

"We met in my office and he told me he had a very good offer from a Chinese team but a rule there means they cannot pay for the transfer," Perez said.

"It was no more than that, it was a conversation that has no interest. It is impossible for Real Madrid to let their captain go for free. I told him it's impossible, nothing more," Perez said.

Perez was also asked about the possibility of Madrid signing Kylian Mbappe or Neymar from Paris Saint-Germain.

"I have not spoken with Zinedine Zidane about either Mbappe or Neymar," said Perez, insisting he wants to maintain a good relationship with PSG.

"If we want a player of PSG, we will call the club's president," he said.&nbsp;

Gareth Bale's future remains uncertain but Perez said, "we have not received any offers for any players of Real Madrid".

He also condemned the recent criticism of players like Bale, that has come from Madrid's fans and sections of the Spanish press.

"We have made it seem like winning the Champions League is normal and it isn't. We have deceived people," said Perez.

"Some of these players have been insulted, they have been whistled, players who are going to go into the history of the club. It's not right," Perez said.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez confirmed on Monday the club are keen to sign Eden Hazard this summer and claimed Sergio Ramos has an offer to move to China.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez confirmed on Monday the club are keen to sign Eden Hazard this summer and claimed Sergio Ramos has an offer to move to China. Hazard could play his last match for Chelsea in the Europa League final against Arsenal on Wednesday, with the Belgian's contract expiring next year. "I have a lot of interest in him coming to Madrid, I'm not going to lie, and I hope this year he can play here," Perez told Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Monday night. "We have wanted to sign Hazard for several years and I hope he will come this year. Until now we have not achieved it, but this time his contract ends next year," Perez said. After a disappointing season, Madrid are expected to overhaul their squad this summer and Perez suggested the club's captain Ramos is considering a move. Ramos and Perez argued after Madrid's Champions League defeat to Ajax in March, with Ramos reportedly telling Perez the team's failings were down to a failure to replace Cristiano Ronaldo. Perez claimed on Tuesday that Ramos had been offered a move to China but said he had blocked the defender's departure. "We met in my office and he told me he had a very good offer from a Chinese team but a rule there means they cannot pay for the transfer," Perez said. "It was no more than that, it was a conversation that has no interest. It is impossible for Real Madrid to let their captain go for free. I told him it's impossible, nothing more," Perez said. Perez was also asked about the possibility of Madrid signing Kylian Mbappe or Neymar from Paris Saint-Germain. "I have not spoken with Zinedine Zidane about either Mbappe or Neymar," said Perez, insisting he wants to maintain a good relationship with PSG. "If we want a player of PSG, we will call the club's president," he said. Gareth Bale's future remains uncertain but Perez said, "we have not received any offers for any players of Real Madrid". He also condemned the recent criticism of players like Bale, that has come from Madrid's fans and sections of the Spanish press. "We have made it seem like winning the Champions League is normal and it isn't. We have deceived people," said Perez. "Some of these players have been insulted, they have been whistled, players who are going to go into the history of the club. It's not right," Perez said.

I hope Eden Hazard comes to Madrid this year, says club President Florentino Perez

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has expressed his desire of keeping<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelseas-eden-hazard-puts-europa-league-trophy-before-transfer-talk-217496&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiaq9mwj7HiAhXJuo8KHbGCAEgQFjAGegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Y4-IEynLw_O3qNYvvmyoe"> Eden Hazard</a> to the club, as the Belgian's contract is due to expire at the end of next season.

"I don't know. As I said in every press conference, I want to respect his decision. I hope that he will stay with us, but we need to be ready if he will decide something different," Goal.com quoted Sarri as saying.

"Also if I have spoken with him, I don't want to say anything. Hazard is good for every team, of course, but he's really very good for us," he added.

Moreover, in January, Chelsea agreed a $73 million move for <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelseas-new-forward-pulisic-wants-to-emulate-hazards-success-at-club-220643/amp&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiKloH8jrHiAhXIiHAKHb21A6wQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw00onqXEla7-4ToTZZfPqo0">Christian Pulisic</a>, who they loaned back to Borussia Dortmund for the rest of the season.

Sarri said the United States international is ready to join the group and eulogised Pulisic by calling him 'really very strong'&nbsp;but further added that there is room for improvement.

"I spoke with him two or three months ago. Pulisic knows very well our team, our way of playing, his team-mates. So he's ready to join the group," he said.

"Christian is a very young player, of course, but he is really very strong. So I'm really very happy. He has the possibility to improve more, so he could become a very important player for us," Sarri added.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has expressed his desire of keeping Eden Hazard to the club, as the Belgian's contract is due to expire at the end of next season.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has expressed his desire of keeping Eden Hazard to the club, as the Belgian's contract is due to expire at the end of next season. "I don't know. As I said in every press conference, I want to respect his decision. I hope that he will stay with us, but we need to be ready if he will decide something different," Goal.com quoted Sarri as saying. "Also if I have spoken with him, I don't want to say anything. Hazard is good for every team, of course, but he's really very good for us," he added. Moreover, in January, Chelsea agreed a $73 million move for Christian Pulisic, who they loaned back to Borussia Dortmund for the rest of the season. Sarri said the United States international is ready to join the group and eulogised Pulisic by calling him 'really very strong' but further added that there is room for improvement. "I spoke with him two or three months ago. Pulisic knows very well our team, our way of playing, his team-mates. So he's ready to join the group," he said. "Christian is a very young player, of course, but he is really very strong. So I'm really very happy. He has the possibility to improve more, so he could become a very important player for us," Sarri added.

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri doesn't want Eden Hazard to leave the club

Chelsea's new forward Christian Pulisic believes he can reach the same level as Stamford Bridge talisman Eden Hazard and is hoping to team up with the Belgium playmaker next season.

The 20-year-old US international Pulisic joined Chelsea from Borussia Dortmund in January for a reported fee of 58 million pounds ($73.40 million) but was immediately loaned back to the German club for the rest of the season.

With Hazard, 28, linked by British and Spanish media with a move to Real Madrid in the close season, Pulisic could be asked to fill the void and feels he is ready for the challenge.

Hazard has won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, league Cup and Europa League crown in seven years at the club.

Asked if he could be as good as Hazard, Pulisic told Sky Sports: "Of course, I want to believe that I can be the best player I can possibly be.

"That's why I work so hard every day and why I thought it was necessary for me to take this next step in my career and to come here. I have so much more to learn as a player and am excited to see what the future holds.

"It's a great compliment (to be compared to Hazard), he's obviously much further along in his career than I am. He is an unbelievable player."

Pulisic, the most expensive American soccer player of all time, could be Chelsea's only new signing ahead of the 2019-20 campaign as they face a two-window transfer ban.

He has mostly played on the right wing for Dortmund this season but could be asked to move to the left flank or take up the number 10 role depending on Hazard's future at the club.

"I guess I have a similar style with an attacking and creative mindset like he does, he's very quick and shifty," Pulisic added.

"There's a lot to learn from him. It would be a great goal to do what he does. Everyone can see he is an unbelievable player and I would be honoured to play alongside him."

Chelsea's new forward Christian Pulisic believes he can reach the same level as Stamford Bridge talisman Eden Hazard and is hoping to team up with the Belgium playmaker next season.

Chelsea's new forward Christian Pulisic believes he can reach the same level as Stamford Bridge talisman Eden Hazard and is hoping to team up with the Belgium playmaker next season. The 20-year-old US international Pulisic joined Chelsea from Borussia Dortmund in January for a reported fee of 58 million pounds ($73.40 million) but was immediately loaned back to the German club for the rest of the season. With Hazard, 28, linked by British and Spanish media with a move to Real Madrid in the close season, Pulisic could be asked to fill the void and feels he is ready for the challenge. Hazard has won two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, league Cup and Europa League crown in seven years at the club. Asked if he could be as good as Hazard, Pulisic told Sky Sports: "Of course, I want to believe that I can be the best player I can possibly be. "That's why I work so hard every day and why I thought it was necessary for me to take this next step in my career and to come here. I have so much more to learn as a player and am excited to see what the future holds. "It's a great compliment (to be compared to Hazard), he's obviously much further along in his career than I am. He is an unbelievable player." Pulisic, the most expensive American soccer player of all time, could be Chelsea's only new signing ahead of the 2019-20 campaign as they face a two-window transfer ban. He has mostly played on the right wing for Dortmund this season but could be asked to move to the left flank or take up the number 10 role depending on Hazard's future at the club. "I guess I have a similar style with an attacking and creative mindset like he does, he's very quick and shifty," Pulisic added. "There's a lot to learn from him. It would be a great goal to do what he does. Everyone can see he is an unbelievable player and I would be honoured to play alongside him."

Chelsea's new forward Pulisic wants to emulate Hazard's success at club

Olivier Giroud has signed a new one-year contract with Chelsea to extend his stay at Stamford Bridge until the end of next season, the Premier League club said on Tuesday.

The 32-year-old French striker has scored 17 goals in 62 appearances for Chelsea since joining from Arsenal in January, 2018.

"I am very happy to sign a new contract," Giroud told the club's website.

"I really wanted to stay at least one more year - I have felt a part of the team, the family, since the beginning and hopefully there will be more trophies to come."

France international Giroud is the Europa League's joint top scorer this season with 10 goals. He is the first Chelsea player to hit double figures for goals in a single season of European football.

Chelsea face Giroud's former club Arsenal in an all-English final on May 29.

Olivier Giroud has signed a new one-year contract with Chelsea to extend his stay at Stamford Bridge until the end of next season, the Premier League club said on Tuesday.

Olivier Giroud has signed a new one-year contract with Chelsea to extend his stay at Stamford Bridge until the end of next season, the Premier League club said on Tuesday. The 32-year-old French striker has scored 17 goals in 62 appearances for Chelsea since joining from Arsenal in January, 2018. "I am very happy to sign a new contract," Giroud told the club's website. "I really wanted to stay at least one more year - I have felt a part of the team, the family, since the beginning and hopefully there will be more trophies to come." France international Giroud is the Europa League's joint top scorer this season with 10 goals. He is the first Chelsea player to hit double figures for goals in a single season of European football. Chelsea face Giroud's former club Arsenal in an all-English final on May 29.

Chelsea's Olivier Giroud signs one-year contract extension

Gonzalo Higuain missed two first-half chances as Chelsea were held to a 0-0 draw by Leicester City at King Power Stadium on Sunday, but the point was enough to secure third place in the Premier League for Maurizio Sarri's side.

Chelsea, who play Arsenal in the Europa League final later this month, finished the campaign with 72 points, one point clear of Tottenham Hotspur in fourth.

Chelsea midfielder Eden Hazard, who has been the subject of much speculation that he could move away from Stamford Bridge, was dropped to the bench, while there was no place in the match-day squad for N'Golo Kante as he succumbed to a hamstring injury.

The two best chances of the opening half fell to Higuain, who put his first effort wide of the right post and then missed on the left when well-placed on both occasions.

Hazard was introduced with 20 minutes remaining and had an appeal for a penalty after tumbling in the box, but referee Anthony Taylor waved play on as neither side were able to find a winner.

Gonzalo Higuain missed two first-half chances as Chelsea were held to a 0-0 draw by Leicester City at King Power Stadium on Sunday, but the point was enough to secure third place in the Premier League for Maurizio Sarri's side.

Gonzalo Higuain missed two first-half chances as Chelsea were held to a 0-0 draw by Leicester City at King Power Stadium on Sunday, but the point was enough to secure third place in the Premier League for Maurizio Sarri's side. Chelsea, who play Arsenal in the Europa League final later this month, finished the campaign with 72 points, one point clear of Tottenham Hotspur in fourth. Chelsea midfielder Eden Hazard, who has been the subject of much speculation that he could move away from Stamford Bridge, was dropped to the bench, while there was no place in the match-day squad for N'Golo Kante as he succumbed to a hamstring injury. The two best chances of the opening half fell to Higuain, who put his first effort wide of the right post and then missed on the left when well-placed on both occasions. Hazard was introduced with 20 minutes remaining and had an appeal for a penalty after tumbling in the box, but referee Anthony Taylor waved play on as neither side were able to find a winner.

Chelsea held by Leicester but point enough for third place

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/kepa-arrizabalagas-heroics-in-shootout-against-eintracht-frankfurt-puts-chelsea-in-europa-cup-final-217359&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjhnOKVmpPiAhVy73MBHUK7CkYQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1veGo2J7OqMT4OyAuFiaWv">Chelsea </a>defender David Luiz has signed a two-year contract extension until 2021, the Premier League club announced on Friday.

Brazil international Luiz has made 48 appearances across all competitions this season, helping the London club secure a top-four finish and reach the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelseas-eden-hazard-puts-europa-league-trophy-before-transfer-talk-217496&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjhnOKVmpPiAhVy73MBHUK7CkYQFjAFegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Fxo-h6hEv4vOPqL-Gy7I8">Europa League</a> final where they face London rivals Arsenal.

"I'm so happy to be here and to have this opportunity to stay. I love this club and I still have the ambition of a young player," the 32-year-old told the club's website.

"It means a lot to reach another <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/an-all-english-affair-at-europa-arsenal-chelsea-book-final-berth-217357&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwihv5G9mpPiAhWL8HMBHWbpCSUQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2DKjcLJsXK8cCmN8Wvni8C">European final</a> and we still have the opportunity to finish in the top three of the Premier League this season and I will continue to try to do my best to help the team", Luiz said.

After falling down the pecking order under former boss Antonio Conte last season, Luiz has emerged as a key player under manager Maurizio Sarri.

"He's set the perfect example to those around him throughout the campaign and been a huge influence on and off the pitch," Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said.

"With the Europa League final still to come, we hope to finish off the season with silverware and David will be central to that success in Baku and beyond", Granovskaia added.

Luiz has made 246 appearances and scored 18 goals for the club in two spells, rejoining them in 2016 after spending three seasons at French side Paris St Germain.

Third-placed Chelsea travel to Leicester City on Sunday for their final league match of the season.

The Europa League final is on May 29 in Baku.

Chelsea defender David Luiz has signed a two-year contract extension until 2021, the Premier League club announced on Friday. Brazil international Luiz has made 48 appearances across all competitions this season, helping the London club secure a top-four finish and reach the Europa League final where they face London rivals Arsenal.

Chelsea defender David Luiz has signed a two-year contract extension until 2021, the Premier League club announced on Friday. Brazil international Luiz has made 48 appearances across all competitions this season, helping the London club secure a top-four finish and reach the Europa League final where they face London rivals Arsenal. "I'm so happy to be here and to have this opportunity to stay. I love this club and I still have the ambition of a young player," the 32-year-old told the club's website. "It means a lot to reach another European final and we still have the opportunity to finish in the top three of the Premier League this season and I will continue to try to do my best to help the team", Luiz said. After falling down the pecking order under former boss Antonio Conte last season, Luiz has emerged as a key player under manager Maurizio Sarri. "He's set the perfect example to those around him throughout the campaign and been a huge influence on and off the pitch," Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia said. "With the Europa League final still to come, we hope to finish off the season with silverware and David will be central to that success in Baku and beyond", Granovskaia added. Luiz has made 246 appearances and scored 18 goals for the club in two spells, rejoining them in 2016 after spending three seasons at French side Paris St Germain. Third-placed Chelsea travel to Leicester City on Sunday for their final league match of the season. The Europa League final is on May 29 in Baku.

Brazilian defender David Luiz extends Chelsea deal by two years

Europa League: How Arsenal learnt from last season's mistake, Aubameyang elaborates

&nbsp;A hat-trick from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-magnificent-lacazette-free-kick-sends-arsenal-into-semis-211651">Alexandre Lacazette strike</a> booked Arsenal's place in the Europa League final with a 4-2 win at Valencia on Thursday to seal an emphatic 7-3 aggregate victory.

Unai Emery's side will <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kepa-arrizabalagas-heroics-in-shootout-against-eintracht-frankfurt-puts-chelsea-in-europa-cup-final-217359">face&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;in Baku on May 29</a> after their London rivals beat Eintracht Frankfurt on penalties to ensure both European club competitions will feature all-English finals.

Arsenal's first win on Spanish soil since beating Real Madrid at the Bernabeu in 2006 kept their hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League through Europe's secondary competition alive.

"We reacted well to going behind and we knew we had to score a minimum of one goal tonight," Lacazette told BT Sport.

"Auba (Aubameyang) was unbelievable tonight with an incredible hat-trick, so thanks to him.

"We have played badly in the Premier League during the last month and now we have to use this opportunity. We want to play in the Champions League next season and we want the trophy."

In a week of improbable European comebacks, Valencia, trailing 3-1 from the first leg, were seeking to become the latest side to overturn a hefty deficit and made the perfect start as Kevin Gameiro slid in to convert Rodrigo's centre with 11 minutes played.

Rodrigo sent an effort wide as the home crowd sensed an upset, but Arsenal were soon level when Aubameyang notched his first out of nothing, producing a fine finish from outside the box from Lacazette's flick on following goalkeeper Petr Cech's long clearance.

Valencia continued to push forward, with Dani Parejo sending a free kick narrowly wide before Jose Luis Gaya was booked for diving on the cusp of halftime as they desperately sought a second.

Marcelino's side were caught napping by Lacazette's curling effort just after the break to put the visitors ahead on the night.

Gameiro converted Rodrigo's mishit shot just before the hour to set up a possible grandstand finish, but Aubameyang soon restored Arsenal's lead before completing his treble two minutes from time to book their first European final since they lost the 2006 Champions League final to Barcelona.

Tempers flared as players from both sides clashed on the final whistle, but it was Emery's side celebrating as they booked their final place.

Liverpool will play Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League final in Madrid on June 1.

A hat-trick from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and an Alexandre Lacazette strike booked Arsenal's place in the Europa League final with a 4-2 win at Valencia on Thursday to seal an emphatic 7-3 aggregate victory.

A hat-trick from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and an Alexandre Lacazette strike booked Arsenal's place in the Europa League final with a 4-2 win at Valencia on Thursday to seal an emphatic 7-3 aggregate victory. Unai Emery's side will face Chelsea in Baku on May 29 after their London rivals beat Eintracht Frankfurt on penalties to ensure both European club competitions will feature all-English finals. Arsenal's first win on Spanish soil since beating Real Madrid at the Bernabeu in 2006 kept their hopes of qualifying for next season's Champions League through Europe's secondary competition alive. "We reacted well to going behind and we knew we had to score a minimum of one goal tonight," Lacazette told BT Sport. "Auba (Aubameyang) was unbelievable tonight with an incredible hat-trick, so thanks to him. "We have played badly in the Premier League during the last month and now we have to use this opportunity. We want to play in the Champions League next season and we want the trophy." In a week of improbable European comebacks, Valencia, trailing 3-1 from the first leg, were seeking to become the latest side to overturn a hefty deficit and made the perfect start as Kevin Gameiro slid in to convert Rodrigo's centre with 11 minutes played. Rodrigo sent an effort wide as the home crowd sensed an upset, but Arsenal were soon level when Aubameyang notched his first out of nothing, producing a fine finish from outside the box from Lacazette's flick on following goalkeeper Petr Cech's long clearance. Valencia continued to push forward, with Dani Parejo sending a free kick narrowly wide before Jose Luis Gaya was booked for diving on the cusp of halftime as they desperately sought a second. Marcelino's side were caught napping by Lacazette's curling effort just after the break to put the visitors ahead on the night. Gameiro converted Rodrigo's mishit shot just before the hour to set up a possible grandstand finish, but Aubameyang soon restored Arsenal's lead before completing his treble two minutes from time to book their first European final since they lost the 2006 Champions League final to Barcelona. Tempers flared as players from both sides clashed on the final whistle, but it was Emery's side celebrating as they booked their final place. Liverpool will play Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League final in Madrid on June 1.

An all-English affair at Europa: Arsenal, Chelsea book final berth

Kepa Arrizabalaga was Chelsea's hero as the Spanish goalkeeper sent his side to the Europa League final with two penalty saves in a dramatic 4-3 shoot-out win against Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday.

Maurizio Sarri's side will face <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/an-all-english-affair-at-europa-arsenal-chelsea-book-final-berth-217357">London rivals Arsenal in an all-Premier League final</a> in Baku on May 29 as for the first time all four finalists in the Champions and Europa League come from England.

Chelsea took the lead in the semi-final second leg thanks to Ruben Loftus-Cheek's first half strike at Stamford Bridge.

But Luka Jovic equalised soon after the interval as a tense clash finished 1-1 after extra time and 2-2 on aggregate.

Cesar Azpilicueta's penalty was saved by Kevin Trapp in the shoot-out, but Kepa kept out Martin Hinteregger's effort and then turned away Goncalo Paciencia before Eden Hazard slotted home the decisive kick to spark wild celebrations.

It was a sweet moment of redemption for Kepa after he was widely criticised for his astonishing mutiny in the League Cup final against Manchester City when he refused to be substituted before the Blues lost on penalties.

Hazard also relished his crucial contribution in what could be his last kick at the Bridge amid rumours of a close-season move to Real Madrid.

"I am only thinking to win something for this club," said Hazard when asked if the final will be his last game for the club.

"If it is my last game I will try to do everything. In my mind I don't know yet."

Having already qualified for next season's Champions League when they guaranteed a top-four finish in the Premier League last weekend, Chelsea can bring an uplifting end to Sarri's troubled first season in charge by lifting the Europa League.

Former Napoli boss Sarri this week claimed Chelsea "deserve" to win a trophy this season and the Italian is now one victory away from the first major prize of his managerial career.

However, Sarri is not happy that Chelsea will play a friendly in the United States against New England Revolution next week.

The match is designed to raise awareness and money for antisemitism and anti-discrimination causes.

"Now we need to rest. Unfortunately we have to go play in the United States because I think in this moment we need to rest then we have 10 days to prepare the final," said Sarri.

"We have to recover energy because we are very tired."

- Frankfurt flummoxed - 
Inevitably, Hazard was the catalyst for Chelsea's 28th minute opener as he twisted and turned to find just enough space for a perfectly-weighted pass to Loftus-Cheek.

Hazard's vision and execution completely flummoxed the Frankfurt defence, leaving Loftus-Cheek with plenty of time to guide a cool low finish into the far corner for his 10th goal of the season.

But Chelsea couldn't turn their first half superiority into further goals and a fatal loss of concentration allowed Frankfurt to equalise in the 49th minute.

Jovic had scored Frankfurt's goal in the first leg and the 21-year-old Serb showed why he is being linked to Real Madrid with another predatory finish.

Chesting the ball down to Mijat Gacinovic, Jovic easily eluded the dozing Luiz as he ran onto the return pass and calmly steered in his 10th Europa League goal this season.

Still lacking any rhythm in extra-time, Chelsea needed an agile goalline clearance from Luiz to stop Sebastien Haller's shot before the Frankfurt forward was denied again by Davide Zappacosta's header off the line.

Azpilicueta thought he'd won it for Chelsea in the closing minutes when he bundled home after Trapp dropped Hazard's cross, but the goal was controversially disallowed for the Spaniard's challenge on the keeper, setting the stage for Kepa and Hazard to see the Blues through to Baku.

Kepa Arrizabalaga was Chelsea's hero as the Spanish goalkeeper sent his side to the Europa League final with two penalty saves in a dramatic 4-3 shoot-out win against Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday.

Kepa Arrizabalaga was Chelsea's hero as the Spanish goalkeeper sent his side to the Europa League final with two penalty saves in a dramatic 4-3 shoot-out win against Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday. Maurizio Sarri's side will face London rivals Arsenal in an all-Premier League final in Baku on May 29 as for the first time all four finalists in the Champions and Europa League come from England. Chelsea took the lead in the semi-final second leg thanks to Ruben Loftus-Cheek's first half strike at Stamford Bridge. But Luka Jovic equalised soon after the interval as a tense clash finished 1-1 after extra time and 2-2 on aggregate. Cesar Azpilicueta's penalty was saved by Kevin Trapp in the shoot-out, but Kepa kept out Martin Hinteregger's effort and then turned away Goncalo Paciencia before Eden Hazard slotted home the decisive kick to spark wild celebrations. It was a sweet moment of redemption for Kepa after he was widely criticised for his astonishing mutiny in the League Cup final against Manchester City when he refused to be substituted before the Blues lost on penalties. Hazard also relished his crucial contribution in what could be his last kick at the Bridge amid rumours of a close-season move to Real Madrid. "I am only thinking to win something for this club," said Hazard when asked if the final will be his last game for the club. "If it is my last game I will try to do everything. In my mind I don't know yet." Having already qualified for next season's Champions League when they guaranteed a top-four finish in the Premier League last weekend, Chelsea can bring an uplifting end to Sarri's troubled first season in charge by lifting the Europa League. Former Napoli boss Sarri this week claimed Chelsea "deserve" to win a trophy this season and the Italian is now one victory away from the first major prize of his managerial career. However, Sarri is not happy that Chelsea will play a friendly in the United States against New England Revolution next week. The match is designed to raise awareness and money for antisemitism and anti-discrimination causes. "Now we need to rest. Unfortunately we have to go play in the United States because I think in this moment we need to rest then we have 10 days to prepare the final," said Sarri. "We have to recover energy because we are very tired." - Frankfurt flummoxed - Inevitably, Hazard was the catalyst for Chelsea's 28th minute opener as he twisted and turned to find just enough space for a perfectly-weighted pass to Loftus-Cheek. Hazard's vision and execution completely flummoxed the Frankfurt defence, leaving Loftus-Cheek with plenty of time to guide a cool low finish into the far corner for his 10th goal of the season. But Chelsea couldn't turn their first half superiority into further goals and a fatal loss of concentration allowed Frankfurt to equalise in the 49th minute. Jovic had scored Frankfurt's goal in the first leg and the 21-year-old Serb showed why he is being linked to Real Madrid with another predatory finish. Chesting the ball down to Mijat Gacinovic, Jovic easily eluded the dozing Luiz as he ran onto the return pass and calmly steered in his 10th Europa League goal this season. Still lacking any rhythm in extra-time, Chelsea needed an agile goalline clearance from Luiz to stop Sebastien Haller's shot before the Frankfurt forward was denied again by Davide Zappacosta's header off the line. Azpilicueta thought he'd won it for Chelsea in the closing minutes when he bundled home after Trapp dropped Hazard's cross, but the goal was controversially disallowed for the Spaniard's challenge on the keeper, setting the stage for Kepa and Hazard to see the Blues through to Baku.

Kepa Arrizabalaga's heroics in shootout against  Eintracht Frankfurt puts Chelsea in Europa Cup final

Eden Hazard will do everything in his power to help <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/kepa-arrizabalagas-heroics-in-shootout-against-eintracht-frankfurt-puts-chelsea-in-europa-cup-final-217359&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjiyLq65pDiAhU88HMBHdhGCksQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2M9CJ5E5F3au6MTSmnDf1S">Chelsea </a>win the Europa League later this month in what might be his final game for the Premier League club, the playmaker has said.

Hazard converted the decisive spot-kick in the 4-3 shootout win over Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday that sent Chelsea into the May 29 <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/europa-league-how-arsenal-learnt-from-last-seasons-mistake-aubameyang-elaborates-217434&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiv6Nyg5pDiAhVJto8KHeegDfcQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3tUeIEQi5bCksFvQq-qPwY">final against fellow London club Arsenal in Baku.</a>

The 28-year-old is expected to leave Chelsea at the end of the season after seven years at Stamford Bridge, with British media linking him with a move to Real Madrid.

"If it's my last game I will try to do everything for this club to win a trophy," Hazard told BT Sport.

"In my mind I don't know yet, I don't think about that. I'm only thinking about winning something for this club and this squad.

"We played a great game but the semi-final is not so easy. We are happy and we will go to Baku to try to win the trophy", Hazard said.

Hazard's teammates Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Willian hoped the Belgian would stay at the club. Chelsea will not be allowed to sign a replacement if Hazard leaves after FIFA upheld the one-year transfer ban earlier this week.

"I'm sure everyone here, and us players, would love him to stay and be a Chelsea player until he finishes his career," Loftus-Cheek said.

"But who knows what he's thinking. Over the last seven, eight years he's been fantastic -- the trophies he has helped us win. Whatever decision he makes we will respect it",&nbsp;Loftus-Cheek added.

Willian said,&nbsp;"He's one of the best players in the world. For me I hope he stays, but in football, you never know."

"I think his head is here, to play for Chelsea. Then after he's finished the season maybe he can talk about his situation", Willian added.

With Chelsea playing away at Leicester City on the final day of the league season, the penalty could be Hazard's last kick of a ball at Stamford Bridge but he knows there remains a big job to do in Azerbaijan.

"I always take my responsibility when I have to," said Hazard, who has 19 goals this season.

"Today we are happy but it's not finished. We have another game to play against Arsenal. We need to go there and play with quality and win the game", Hazard said.

Eden Hazard will do everything in his power to help Chelsea win the Europa League later this month in what might be his final game for the Premier League club, the playmaker has said.

Eden Hazard will do everything in his power to help Chelsea win the Europa League later this month in what might be his final game for the Premier League club, the playmaker has said. Hazard converted the decisive spot-kick in the 4-3 shootout win over Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday that sent Chelsea into the May 29 final against fellow London club Arsenal in Baku. The 28-year-old is expected to leave Chelsea at the end of the season after seven years at Stamford Bridge, with British media linking him with a move to Real Madrid. "If it's my last game I will try to do everything for this club to win a trophy," Hazard told BT Sport. "In my mind I don't know yet, I don't think about that. I'm only thinking about winning something for this club and this squad. "We played a great game but the semi-final is not so easy. We are happy and we will go to Baku to try to win the trophy", Hazard said. Hazard's teammates Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Willian hoped the Belgian would stay at the club. Chelsea will not be allowed to sign a replacement if Hazard leaves after FIFA upheld the one-year transfer ban earlier this week. "I'm sure everyone here, and us players, would love him to stay and be a Chelsea player until he finishes his career," Loftus-Cheek said. "But who knows what he's thinking. Over the last seven, eight years he's been fantastic -- the trophies he has helped us win. Whatever decision he makes we will respect it", Loftus-Cheek added. Willian said, "He's one of the best players in the world. For me I hope he stays, but in football, you never know." "I think his head is here, to play for Chelsea. Then after he's finished the season maybe he can talk about his situation", Willian added. With Chelsea playing away at Leicester City on the final day of the league season, the penalty could be Hazard's last kick of a ball at Stamford Bridge but he knows there remains a big job to do in Azerbaijan. "I always take my responsibility when I have to," said Hazard, who has 19 goals this season. "Today we are happy but it's not finished. We have another game to play against Arsenal. We need to go there and play with quality and win the game", Hazard said.

Chelsea's Eden Hazard puts Europa League trophy before transfer talk

Chelsea midfielder N'Golo Kante will miss the second leg of their Europa League semi-final against Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday and faces a further two weeks out with a hamstring problem, manager Maurizio Sarri said on Wednesday.

France international Kante left the field early in the first half of last Sunday's 3-0 Premier League win over Watford and Sarri said after the game that the decision not to rest the World Cup winner was a mistake.

Chelsea, who drew the first leg at Frankfurt 1-1, are hopeful the 28-year-old can feature if they reach the final of Europe's second-tier club competition on May 29.

"He had a problem with his hamstring, not very serious but he needs to rest for a couple of weeks," Sarri told reporters.

"We can try to recover him for only the final if we get there. I'm not sure if he can, but we can try."

Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who could fill in for Kante again, said Chelsea will not take their foot off the gas despite sealing a top-four league finish and Champions League qualification.

"We won't be relaxed tomorrow, we have the Champions League qualification but we have the chance to win a trophy and that will be stupid to go into the match in a relaxed manner," Loftus-Cheek said.

Sarri echoed the views of the England international but warned his players of the danger posed by the German side.

"I think we have reached the target of the club, so we're very happy. We have to play in another competition. We have to reach the final and try to win," the Italian added.

"It's not easy because we have to play a dangerous team as we saw in the first leg. They're dynamic and aggressive and when they can find spaces, it's a dangerous match.

"You have to play a semi-final against a strong team and it's difficult to be favourite. I'm sure tomorrow they can play at their best... we need to be careful."

Chelsea midfielder N'Golo Kante will miss the second leg of their Europa League semi-final against Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday and faces a further two weeks out with a hamstring problem, manager Maurizio Sarri said on Wednesday.

Chelsea midfielder N'Golo Kante will miss the second leg of their Europa League semi-final against Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday and faces a further two weeks out with a hamstring problem, manager Maurizio Sarri said on Wednesday. France international Kante left the field early in the first half of last Sunday's 3-0 Premier League win over Watford and Sarri said after the game that the decision not to rest the World Cup winner was a mistake. Chelsea, who drew the first leg at Frankfurt 1-1, are hopeful the 28-year-old can feature if they reach the final of Europe's second-tier club competition on May 29. "He had a problem with his hamstring, not very serious but he needs to rest for a couple of weeks," Sarri told reporters. "We can try to recover him for only the final if we get there. I'm not sure if he can, but we can try." Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who could fill in for Kante again, said Chelsea will not take their foot off the gas despite sealing a top-four league finish and Champions League qualification. "We won't be relaxed tomorrow, we have the Champions League qualification but we have the chance to win a trophy and that will be stupid to go into the match in a relaxed manner," Loftus-Cheek said. Sarri echoed the views of the England international but warned his players of the danger posed by the German side. "I think we have reached the target of the club, so we're very happy. We have to play in another competition. We have to reach the final and try to win," the Italian added. "It's not easy because we have to play a dangerous team as we saw in the first leg. They're dynamic and aggressive and when they can find spaces, it's a dangerous match. "You have to play a semi-final against a strong team and it's difficult to be favourite. I'm sure tomorrow they can play at their best... we need to be careful."

Chelsea's N'Golo Kante out of Europa League semi against Frankfurt

FIFA said on Wednesday that they have upheld <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelseas-gary-cahill-hits-out-at-manager-maurizio-sarri-after-terrible-final-season-216126&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiXg4uS-IviAhVUiHAKHcX_BqMQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw15QkQwOGqVsRLVyVm0iJB6">Chelsea's </a>one-year transfer ban but the English Premier League club will be able to register youth players during the period following an appeal.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-set-europa-league-record-with-1-1-draw-at-eintracht-215604&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiXg4uS-IviAhVUiHAKHcX_BqMQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3fPghudELfSe5qGwSxqwRC">Chelsea </a>was fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($589,970) and sanctioned in February in relation to 29 cases where regulations relating to the international transfer and registration of players under the age of 18 were breached.&nbsp;

"The FIFA Appeal Committee has decided to partially uphold the appeal lodged by Chelsea FC against the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee to sanction the club with a ban on registering new players at both national and international level for the next two complete and consecutive registration periods," FIFA said in a statement.&nbsp;

"This ban applied to the club as a whole – with the exception of the women's and futsal teams – and did not prevent the release of players", the statement read.&nbsp;

But FIFA's Appeal Committee decided the club can still sign players under the age of 16 as they concluded imposing a ban on registering each and every minor "would not be proportionate to the offence committed".&nbsp;

The next step for Chelsea could see them take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport to try and freeze or overturn the ban.&nbsp;

FIFA said on Wednesday that they have upheld Chelsea's one-year transfer ban but the English Premier League club will be able to register youth players during the period following an appeal.

FIFA said on Wednesday that they have upheld Chelsea's one-year transfer ban but the English Premier League club will be able to register youth players during the period following an appeal. Chelsea was fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($589,970) and sanctioned in February in relation to 29 cases where regulations relating to the international transfer and registration of players under the age of 18 were breached. "The FIFA Appeal Committee has decided to partially uphold the appeal lodged by Chelsea FC against the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee to sanction the club with a ban on registering new players at both national and international level for the next two complete and consecutive registration periods," FIFA said in a statement. "This ban applied to the club as a whole – with the exception of the women's and futsal teams – and did not prevent the release of players", the statement read. But FIFA's Appeal Committee decided the club can still sign players under the age of 16 as they concluded imposing a ban on registering each and every minor "would not be proportionate to the offence committed". The next step for Chelsea could see them take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport to try and freeze or overturn the ban.

Chelsea lose transfer ban appeal but can register minor players, says FIFA

Chelsea captain Gary Cahill said it was hard to respect manager Maurizio Sarri due to the way he has been treated this season as the defender prepares to leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the campaign.

Sarri said in December that he felt Cahill was not suited to his possession-based style of football, leading to the centre back making just seven appearances this season.

The 33-year-old has not played a single competitive match since Nov. 29 despite leading Chelsea to the FA Cup under Antonio Conte last season.

"It's been really terrible for me personally," Cahill told the Daily Telegraph.

"It will just be erased out of my head when I leave Chelsea. My last memory will be last season's FA Cup final.

"It's been very difficult. I have played on a regular basis over the previous six seasons and I've won everything with Chelsea, so to be watching from the stands is something I didn't expect."

Cahill, who has won two Premier League titles as well as the Champions League and Europa League with Chelsea since joining from Bolton Wanderers in 2012, said Sarri is yet to discuss the reasons behind his lack of first-team opportunities directly with him.

"If you are not playing a player, any player, for two, three, four games, then you don't have to give a reason for that. But if it gets to eight or nine games, then you have to explain the situation. What's going on? But the manager hasn't done that," Cahill said.

"It makes it very hard for me to have respect for someone who has not respected what some of us have won with the club."

Chelsea and Sarri did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Fourth-placed Chelsea host Watford in the league later on Sunday.

Chelsea captain Gary Cahill said it was hard to respect manager Maurizio Sarri due to the way he has been treated this season as the defender prepares to leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the campaign.

Chelsea captain Gary Cahill said it was hard to respect manager Maurizio Sarri due to the way he has been treated this season as the defender prepares to leave Stamford Bridge at the end of the campaign. Sarri said in December that he felt Cahill was not suited to his possession-based style of football, leading to the centre back making just seven appearances this season. The 33-year-old has not played a single competitive match since Nov. 29 despite leading Chelsea to the FA Cup under Antonio Conte last season. "It's been really terrible for me personally," Cahill told the Daily Telegraph. "It will just be erased out of my head when I leave Chelsea. My last memory will be last season's FA Cup final. "It's been very difficult. I have played on a regular basis over the previous six seasons and I've won everything with Chelsea, so to be watching from the stands is something I didn't expect." Cahill, who has won two Premier League titles as well as the Champions League and Europa League with Chelsea since joining from Bolton Wanderers in 2012, said Sarri is yet to discuss the reasons behind his lack of first-team opportunities directly with him. "If you are not playing a player, any player, for two, three, four games, then you don't have to give a reason for that. But if it gets to eight or nine games, then you have to explain the situation. What's going on? But the manager hasn't done that," Cahill said. "It makes it very hard for me to have respect for someone who has not respected what some of us have won with the club." Chelsea and Sarri did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Fourth-placed Chelsea host Watford in the league later on Sunday.

Chelsea's Gary Cahill hits out at manager Maurizio Sarri after 'terrible' final season

Chelsea set a Europa League record of 16 successive matches unbeaten on Thursday with 1-1 semi-final first leg draw at Eintracht Frankfurt thanks to a Pedro equaliser on the stroke of half time.

Serbian Luka Jovic had put the hosts ahead after 23 minutes.

The draw meant Chelsea, Europa League winners in 2013, surpassed Atletico Madrid's 2011-12 unbeaten run.

They took time to find their stride, however, with Jovic stooping to head past the outstretched Kepa Arrizabalaga off a cross from compatriot Filip Kostic with a goal that raised the decibels in a stadium famed for its atmosphere.

Jovic, firmly on the radar of top clubs across Europe, has now scored nine goals in the competition and 26 in all this season.

Frankfurt failed to press home their advantage, however, running out of energy in a second half dominated by the visitors with Jorginho dictating play.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek led the fightback, blasting just wide in the 42nd minute and then nimbly beating defenders before feeding the ball through to Spanish winger Pedro who hammered in a low left-foot shot.

Chelsea were far livelier after the break, with the hosts having another close escape when David Luiz rattled the crossbar from a dipping free kick.

Frankfurt captain David Abraham headed over the bar while unmarked with six minutes remaining after an optimistic appeal for a penalty came to nothing.

"At 1-0 down we were a bit in trouble," Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta said.

"I think the last 15 minutes of the first half we dominated with great chances. We scored the goal before halftime and in the second half I think we had more chances than them."

Both sides are fourth in their domestic leagues, with the Europa League offering an alternative route to next season's Champions League.

The second leg is at Stamford Bridge next Thursday, when the positions in the Premier League will also come into clearer focus before the final weekend.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri left Eden Hazard on the bench until the 62nd minute, preferring to rest the Belgian forward for those important remaining Premier League games against Watford and Leicester City.

When Hazard did come on, he had a shot tipped over the bar.

"I am very happy with the performance but not with the result," said Sarri, who felt Chelsea should have scored more.

"After 25 minutes we started to play. We played very well in the last 20 minutes of the first half, very well for 35 minutes in the second half. And so I think that at the end we deserved to win. But 1-1 away is not so bad."

Arsenal beat Valencia 3-1 in the other semi-final first league, increasing the likelihood of an all-London final in Baku.

Chelsea set a Europa League record of 16 successive matches unbeaten on Thursday with 1-1 semi-final first leg draw at Eintracht Frankfurt thanks to a Pedro equaliser on the stroke of half time.

Chelsea set a Europa League record of 16 successive matches unbeaten on Thursday with 1-1 semi-final first leg draw at Eintracht Frankfurt thanks to a Pedro equaliser on the stroke of half time. Serbian Luka Jovic had put the hosts ahead after 23 minutes. The draw meant Chelsea, Europa League winners in 2013, surpassed Atletico Madrid's 2011-12 unbeaten run. They took time to find their stride, however, with Jovic stooping to head past the outstretched Kepa Arrizabalaga off a cross from compatriot Filip Kostic with a goal that raised the decibels in a stadium famed for its atmosphere. Jovic, firmly on the radar of top clubs across Europe, has now scored nine goals in the competition and 26 in all this season. Frankfurt failed to press home their advantage, however, running out of energy in a second half dominated by the visitors with Jorginho dictating play. Ruben Loftus-Cheek led the fightback, blasting just wide in the 42nd minute and then nimbly beating defenders before feeding the ball through to Spanish winger Pedro who hammered in a low left-foot shot. Chelsea were far livelier after the break, with the hosts having another close escape when David Luiz rattled the crossbar from a dipping free kick. Frankfurt captain David Abraham headed over the bar while unmarked with six minutes remaining after an optimistic appeal for a penalty came to nothing. "At 1-0 down we were a bit in trouble," Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta said. "I think the last 15 minutes of the first half we dominated with great chances. We scored the goal before halftime and in the second half I think we had more chances than them." Both sides are fourth in their domestic leagues, with the Europa League offering an alternative route to next season's Champions League. The second leg is at Stamford Bridge next Thursday, when the positions in the Premier League will also come into clearer focus before the final weekend. Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri left Eden Hazard on the bench until the 62nd minute, preferring to rest the Belgian forward for those important remaining Premier League games against Watford and Leicester City. When Hazard did come on, he had a shot tipped over the bar. "I am very happy with the performance but not with the result," said Sarri, who felt Chelsea should have scored more. "After 25 minutes we started to play. We played very well in the last 20 minutes of the first half, very well for 35 minutes in the second half. And so I think that at the end we deserved to win. But 1-1 away is not so bad." Arsenal beat Valencia 3-1 in the other semi-final first league, increasing the likelihood of an all-London final in Baku.

Chelsea set Europa League record with 1-1 draw at Eintracht

Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing knee surgery for an injury sustained in Sunday's 1-1 Premier League draw at Manchester United, the London club said.

Rudiger, who hurt his left knee and limped off after 65 minutes, will miss Chelsea's final two league matches against Watford and Leicester as well as their Europa League campaign where they take on Eintracht Frankfurt in the semi-finals.

"Toni Rudiger successfully underwent surgery on his left knee meniscus today. He will miss the rest of this campaign and will rehab over the summer to be back early next season," Chelsea said on their website.

Andreas Christensen is expected to fill in at centre back for the 26-year-old Germany international when Chelsea visit Frankfurt for the first leg on Thursday.

"What a pity I won't be able to help my team during the last games of the season. But my knee surgery went well and I'm already positive again," Rudiger said on Instagram.

Chelsea are fourth in the Premier League with 68 points and looking to secure the position to ensure Champions League soccer next season.

Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing knee surgery for an injury sustained in Sunday's 1-1 Premier League draw at Manchester United, the London club said.

Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing knee surgery for an injury sustained in Sunday's 1-1 Premier League draw at Manchester United, the London club said. Rudiger, who hurt his left knee and limped off after 65 minutes, will miss Chelsea's final two league matches against Watford and Leicester as well as their Europa League campaign where they take on Eintracht Frankfurt in the semi-finals. "Toni Rudiger successfully underwent surgery on his left knee meniscus today. He will miss the rest of this campaign and will rehab over the summer to be back early next season," Chelsea said on their website. Andreas Christensen is expected to fill in at centre back for the 26-year-old Germany international when Chelsea visit Frankfurt for the first leg on Thursday. "What a pity I won't be able to help my team during the last games of the season. But my knee surgery went well and I'm already positive again," Rudiger said on Instagram. Chelsea are fourth in the Premier League with 68 points and looking to secure the position to ensure Champions League soccer next season.

Chelsea's Antonio Rudiger out for season after knee surgery

Chelsea bolstered their top-four hopes with a 1-1 draw at Manchester United after the home side's Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea gifted the Londoners an equaliser in the Premier league on Sunday.

United led through Juan Mata's 11th-minute strike but just before halftime, the visitors were level when De Gea weakly parried an Antonio Rudiger shot into the path of Marcos Alonso.

With two games remaining in the season, the result put fourth-placed Chelsea on 68 points, two clear of Arsenal who are fifth and still three ahead of sixth-placed United in the race to earn a Champions League berth for next season.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's United have run out of steam, having won just two out of their last 10 games in all competitions.

The hosts dominated the first half, fully deserving to take the lead when marauding left-back Luke Shaw latched onto a chip into the area from Romelu Lukaku and passed across the goal for Mata to score against his old club on his 31st birthday.

But De Gea, whose form has dipped in recent weeks with a string of uncharacteristic errors, failed to deal with Rudiger's shot and Alonso pounced to bring Chelsea level in the 43rd.

Chelsea bolstered their top-four hopes with a 1-1 draw at Manchester United after the home side's Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea gifted the Londoners an equaliser in the Premier league on Sunday.

Chelsea bolstered their top-four hopes with a 1-1 draw at Manchester United after the home side's Spanish goalkeeper David de Gea gifted the Londoners an equaliser in the Premier league on Sunday. United led through Juan Mata's 11th-minute strike but just before halftime, the visitors were level when De Gea weakly parried an Antonio Rudiger shot into the path of Marcos Alonso. With two games remaining in the season, the result put fourth-placed Chelsea on 68 points, two clear of Arsenal who are fifth and still three ahead of sixth-placed United in the race to earn a Champions League berth for next season. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's United have run out of steam, having won just two out of their last 10 games in all competitions. The hosts dominated the first half, fully deserving to take the lead when marauding left-back Luke Shaw latched onto a chip into the area from Romelu Lukaku and passed across the goal for Mata to score against his old club on his 31st birthday. But De Gea, whose form has dipped in recent weeks with a string of uncharacteristic errors, failed to deal with Rudiger's shot and Alonso pounced to bring Chelsea level in the 43rd.

Chelsea draw at Manchester United to boost top-four chances

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri hailed Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea as "a very good goalkeeper" and offered his support to him after the keeper's mistake let in Marcos Alonso to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-draw-at-manchester-united-to-boost-top-four-chances-214350">earn the Chelsea a 1-1 draw</a> at Old Trafford in the English Premier League on Sunday.&nbsp;

Man Utd's Spanish goalkeeper, who is often termed as one of the best goalkeepers of his time, was central to alot of criticism after he gifted Chelsea the equaliser.&nbsp;

But Sarri came forward in de Gea's defence and said, "It's impossible to stay very high level for 12 months with consistency, but de Gea, in my opinion, is a great goalkeeper."&nbsp;

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I swear, if anybody mentions David De Gea and Alisson Becker in the same sentence, I might throw hands. 
 
De Gea no longer has a seat at the table of the best goalkeepers in the world, he’s letting himself down. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/2kEu44J6JZ">pic.twitter.com/2kEu44J6JZ</a>
— Nic Mason (@MrNickMason) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrNickMason/status/1122552195549999104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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United's boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer also defended de Gea. He said, "I trust David and he's, for me, been the best player United have had the last six or seven years."

"He's been absolutely outstanding. Going through tough patches is just part of a footballer's career and David will be fine,"&nbsp;Solskjaer added.&nbsp;

Alonso's goal before the break cancelled out Juan Mata's early strike for United.

The draw means Chelsea with 68 points now have a two-point cushion in fourth place, occupying the last UEFA Champions League qualifying place.

United in sixth are thee points behind and with an inferior goal difference with two games to play.

Arsenal - who lost 3-0 at Leicester on Sunday - are fifth with 66 points.

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri hailed Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea as "a very good goalkeeper" and offered his support to him after the keeper's mistake let in Marcos Alonso to earn the Chelsea a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford in the English Premier League on Sunday.

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri hailed Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea as "a very good goalkeeper" and offered his support to him after the keeper's mistake let in Marcos Alonso to earn the Chelsea a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford in the English Premier League on Sunday. Man Utd's Spanish goalkeeper, who is often termed as one of the best goalkeepers of his time, was central to alot of criticism after he gifted Chelsea the equaliser. But Sarri came forward in de Gea's defence and said, "It's impossible to stay very high level for 12 months with consistency, but de Gea, in my opinion, is a great goalkeeper." I swear, if anybody mentions David De Gea and Alisson Becker in the same sentence, I might throw hands. De Gea no longer has a seat at the table of the best goalkeepers in the world, he’s letting himself down. #LFC pic.twitter.com/2kEu44J6JZ — Nic Mason (@MrNickMason) April 28, 2019 × United's boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer also defended de Gea. He said, "I trust David and he's, for me, been the best player United have had the last six or seven years." "He's been absolutely outstanding. Going through tough patches is just part of a footballer's career and David will be fine," Solskjaer added. Alonso's goal before the break cancelled out Juan Mata's early strike for United. The draw means Chelsea with 68 points now have a two-point cushion in fourth place, occupying the last UEFA Champions League qualifying place. United in sixth are thee points behind and with an inferior goal difference with two games to play. Arsenal - who lost 3-0 at Leicester on Sunday - are fifth with 66 points.

Maurizio Sarri defends David de Gea after he gifted Chelsea equaliser against Manchester United

Everton manager Marco Silva has dismissed claims that his side is showing signs of inconsistency towards the end of the season as they look to finish seventh and potentially qualify for the Europa League.

Everton have won four of their last five games -- which included wins over top six sides Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United -- but lost 2-0 at already-relegated Fulham to drop to ninth in the standings.

"For me, when we lose one game away or at home it can happen," Silva told reporters ahead of Saturday's trip to Crystal Palace. "It's not a moment to talk about inconsistency in our team.

"It can happen even though I always prepare the team to win. All of you expected after our three wins in a row to go there (to Fulham) and win easily. I told you it would be a difficult match, and we prepared our players in that way.

"They were better than us. We didn't perform the way I wanted, but it's not a matter of inconsistency because if you look at our last six games, our form is really good."

Finishing seventh could allow Everton to play in the Europa League qualifying rounds if Manchester City, who have already qualified for the Champions League, beat Watford in the FA Cup.

Everton are two points behind seventh-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers and a point behind eighth-placed Watford, with one or both sides assured of dropping points when they face each other on Saturday.

"First, we have to keep fighting. We aren't in seventh, it's not the most important thing in this moment," Silva added.

"It will be tight. We are in competition (for seventh) with clubs having really good seasons too. We have to keep doing the best we can and in the end we will see what position we end up in the table."

However, Silva could be without his leading goal scorer Richarlison at Palace. The Brazilian will face a late fitness test on Friday while forward Theo Walcott is yet to recover from an illness.

"Richarlison we have big doubts if he will be able to play," Silva said. "He tried yesterday to work with us.

"He felt different but let's see how he is able to react tomorrow. Today he tried again, but he will be a major doubt for us."

Everton manager Marco Silva has dismissed claims that his side is showing signs of inconsistency towards the end of the season as they look to finish seventh and potentially qualify for the Europa League.

Everton manager Marco Silva has dismissed claims that his side is showing signs of inconsistency towards the end of the season as they look to finish seventh and potentially qualify for the Europa League. Everton have won four of their last five games -- which included wins over top six sides Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United -- but lost 2-0 at already-relegated Fulham to drop to ninth in the standings. "For me, when we lose one game away or at home it can happen," Silva told reporters ahead of Saturday's trip to Crystal Palace. "It's not a moment to talk about inconsistency in our team. "It can happen even though I always prepare the team to win. All of you expected after our three wins in a row to go there (to Fulham) and win easily. I told you it would be a difficult match, and we prepared our players in that way. "They were better than us. We didn't perform the way I wanted, but it's not a matter of inconsistency because if you look at our last six games, our form is really good." Finishing seventh could allow Everton to play in the Europa League qualifying rounds if Manchester City, who have already qualified for the Champions League, beat Watford in the FA Cup. Everton are two points behind seventh-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers and a point behind eighth-placed Watford, with one or both sides assured of dropping points when they face each other on Saturday. "First, we have to keep fighting. We aren't in seventh, it's not the most important thing in this moment," Silva added. "It will be tight. We are in competition (for seventh) with clubs having really good seasons too. We have to keep doing the best we can and in the end we will see what position we end up in the table." However, Silva could be without his leading goal scorer Richarlison at Palace. The Brazilian will face a late fitness test on Friday while forward Theo Walcott is yet to recover from an illness. "Richarlison we have big doubts if he will be able to play," Silva said. "He tried yesterday to work with us. "He felt different but let's see how he is able to react tomorrow. Today he tried again, but he will be a major doubt for us."

Defiant Marco Silva says Everton are not inconsistent

Chelsea and Burnley could face Football Association action following angry touchline exchanges in Monday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-held-2-2-by-burnley-denting-champions-league-hopes-212835">2-2 Premier League draw at Stamford Bridge</a>.

Chelsea are expected to lodge a formal complaint over comments allegedly addressed by Burnley coaching staff to Blues manager Maurizio Sarri, who was later sent off by referee Kevin Friend.

There was also a flare-up between the teams in the tunnel following the final whistle.

Sarri did not attend the post-match media conference and assistant manager Gianfranco Zola, asked if Chelsea would contact the FA over his fellow Italian's frustrations, replied: "I think there will be a follow (up) on that. Maurizio felt very unhappy.

"We understand it's a football game. You say words because of the adrenaline, but he wasn't particularly happy.

"If Maurizio said that, probably it's something that could have been avoided."

Disciplinary action by the FA, English football's governing body, now appears inevitable although officials are likely to first examine Friend's match report before deciding if further measures are needed.

A tunnel melee at full-time saw Chelsea's David Luiz squaring up to Ashley Westwood, while Antonio Rudiger clashed with Burnley goalkeeping coach Billy Mercer.

'Laugh in your face'

Brazil defender Luiz meanwhile was unhappy that his early efforts to make Friend aware of what he said were Burnley's delaying tactics initially fell on deaf ears, although Clarets goalkeeper Tom Heaton was booked for time-wasting in the 32nd minute.

"It is difficult when you see a referee even laugh in your face when you try to speak with him in a respectful way, it is not nice," Luiz told Chelsea's website.

"When I was trying to speak with him he was never looking in my eyes and he was not trying to listen, he just said, 'I don't want to listen to you, shut up and play the game'."

The draw saw Chelsea lose ground in the race for a top-four finish while all but assuring Burnley of Premier League survival as they reached 40 points for the season.

Jeff Hendrick gave Burnley an eighth-minute lead in west London only for Chelsea's N'Golo Kante and Gonzalo Higuain to have made it 2-1 to the home side by the 14th minute.

But Ashley Barnes made it 2-2 before the match was overshadowed by the fractious scenes shortly after full-time.

Burnley boss played down the incidents involving the two benches as "handbags", having spoken to Zola at half-time to ask Sarri not to encroach into the Clarets' technical area.

"I know Zola a bit, he's a fantastic fella, and I've always got on with him," Dyche said.

"He said at half-time he (Sarri) is not quite getting it. I said he was going over into my box.

"He just said he didn't quite get the reality of it, the technical areas are bigger in Italy.

"I said fine, and accepted it."

Chelsea and Burnley could face Football Association action following angry touchline exchanges in Monday's 2-2 Premier League draw at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea are expected to lodge a formal complaint over comments allegedly addressed by Burnley coaching staff to Blues manager Maurizio Sarri, who was later sent off by referee Kevin Friend.

Chelsea and Burnley could face Football Association action following angry touchline exchanges in Monday's 2-2 Premier League draw at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea are expected to lodge a formal complaint over comments allegedly addressed by Burnley coaching staff to Blues manager Maurizio Sarri, who was later sent off by referee Kevin Friend. There was also a flare-up between the teams in the tunnel following the final whistle. Sarri did not attend the post-match media conference and assistant manager Gianfranco Zola, asked if Chelsea would contact the FA over his fellow Italian's frustrations, replied: "I think there will be a follow (up) on that. Maurizio felt very unhappy. "We understand it's a football game. You say words because of the adrenaline, but he wasn't particularly happy. "If Maurizio said that, probably it's something that could have been avoided." Disciplinary action by the FA, English football's governing body, now appears inevitable although officials are likely to first examine Friend's match report before deciding if further measures are needed. A tunnel melee at full-time saw Chelsea's David Luiz squaring up to Ashley Westwood, while Antonio Rudiger clashed with Burnley goalkeeping coach Billy Mercer. 'Laugh in your face' Brazil defender Luiz meanwhile was unhappy that his early efforts to make Friend aware of what he said were Burnley's delaying tactics initially fell on deaf ears, although Clarets goalkeeper Tom Heaton was booked for time-wasting in the 32nd minute. "It is difficult when you see a referee even laugh in your face when you try to speak with him in a respectful way, it is not nice," Luiz told Chelsea's website. "When I was trying to speak with him he was never looking in my eyes and he was not trying to listen, he just said, 'I don't want to listen to you, shut up and play the game'." The draw saw Chelsea lose ground in the race for a top-four finish while all but assuring Burnley of Premier League survival as they reached 40 points for the season. Jeff Hendrick gave Burnley an eighth-minute lead in west London only for Chelsea's N'Golo Kante and Gonzalo Higuain to have made it 2-1 to the home side by the 14th minute. But Ashley Barnes made it 2-2 before the match was overshadowed by the fractious scenes shortly after full-time. Burnley boss played down the incidents involving the two benches as "handbags", having spoken to Zola at half-time to ask Sarri not to encroach into the Clarets' technical area. "I know Zola a bit, he's a fantastic fella, and I've always got on with him," Dyche said. "He said at half-time he (Sarri) is not quite getting it. I said he was going over into my box. "He just said he didn't quite get the reality of it, the technical areas are bigger in Italy. "I said fine, and accepted it."

Chelsea and Burnley wait on FA after touchline clashes

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has been charged with misconduct for his behaviour during Monday's 2-2 Premier League draw with Burnley, the English Football Association said.

The Chelsea coach was sent to the stands by referee Kevin Friend after becoming embroiled in a scuffle amongst players on the touchline in the dying moments of the game at Stamford Bridge.

Sarri did not carry out his post-match media duties, sending assistant coach Gianfranco Zola to fill in for him instead.

Zola told reporters at the time that Sarri had sought to get his players out of the scuffle but the referee had "misinterpreted" his intentions and that the Chelsea manager had been offended by a comment from the Burnley bench.

"Maurizio Sarri has been charged with misconduct in relation to his behaviour in the 94th minute of Monday's Premier League fixture between Chelsea and Burnley," the FA said in a statement on Wednesday.

The Chelsea manager has until 1700 GMT on Friday to responded to the charge, the governing body added.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has been charged with misconduct for his behaviour during Monday's 2-2 Premier League draw with Burnley, the English Football Association said.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri has been charged with misconduct for his behaviour during Monday's 2-2 Premier League draw with Burnley, the English Football Association said. The Chelsea coach was sent to the stands by referee Kevin Friend after becoming embroiled in a scuffle amongst players on the touchline in the dying moments of the game at Stamford Bridge. Sarri did not carry out his post-match media duties, sending assistant coach Gianfranco Zola to fill in for him instead. Zola told reporters at the time that Sarri had sought to get his players out of the scuffle but the referee had "misinterpreted" his intentions and that the Chelsea manager had been offended by a comment from the Burnley bench. "Maurizio Sarri has been charged with misconduct in relation to his behaviour in the 94th minute of Monday's Premier League fixture between Chelsea and Burnley," the FA said in a statement on Wednesday. The Chelsea manager has until 1700 GMT on Friday to responded to the charge, the governing body added.

Chelsea's Maurizio Sarri charged with misconduct over Burnley behaviour

Chelsea suffered a setback in their push for a Champions League spot when they were held to a 2-2 draw at home to Burnley in the Premier League on Monday and tempers flared at the end of the match when Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri was sent to the stands.

Jeff Hendrick gave Burnley an early lead with a crisp volley before N'Golo Kante and Gonzalo Higuain put the home side 2-1 ahead by the 14th minute. However, Ashley Barnes drew the visitors level 10 minutes later.

After Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and Arsenal all lost at the weekend, Chelsea had an opportunity to tighten their grip on the Premier League's top four places.

The draw pushed Chelsea up a place into fourth spot in the Premier League, level on points with third-placed Spurs and one point ahead of Arsenal, both of whom have a played a game less. Burnley remained 15th are nine points clear of the relegation zone with three games left to play.

On a frustrating night for Chelsea, teenager Callum Hudson-Odoi had to be helped off the pitch shortly before halftime after suffering a serious Achilles tendon injury.

Chelsea's frustration at failing to claim all three points boiled over when referee Kevin Friend sent Sarri off after the Italian coach became embroiled in a scuffle amongst players on the touchline in the dying moments.

"You can understand he is frustrated about the game," said Chelsea assistant coach Gianfranco Zola, who stood in for Sarri in the post-match news conference.

Zola said Sarri had sought to get his players out of the scuffle but the referee "misinterpreted it; we are very unhappy about it." Zola added Sarri had been offended by a comment from the Burnley bench.

Chelsea defender David Luiz accused Burnley of playing "anti-football" by wasting time and employing negative tactics.

Burnley coach Sean Dyche bristled at the "anti-football" suggestion and praised his players for withstanding Chelsea's pressure.

"There are nights like tonight when you just have to give everything, every inch," he said. "You know, it used to be a really good thing when fans see their team give everything. They used to love it and maybe it’s still got a place."

It was Burnley -- seeking to avoid being sucked back into the relegation fight -- who struck first when Hendrick volleyed home in the eighth minute after a headed clearance found him in space on the edge of the penalty area.

Chelsea hit back with two goals in two minutes. First, winger Eden Hazard bamboozled Burnley's defence before cutting the ball back for Kante to sweep home. Then Higuain blasted a shot in off the underside of the crossbar in the 14th minute.

Ten minutes later, Burnley were level again when Barnes evaded his marker at the back post to connect with a headed flick-on from Chris Wood.

After the end-to-end drama of the first 45 minutes, Chelsea dominated possession in the second half but failed to break down Burnley's defence.

Chelsea suffered a setback in their push for a Champions League spot when they were held to a 2-2 draw at home to Burnley in the Premier League on Monday and tempers flared at the end of the match when Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri was sent to the stands.

Chelsea suffered a setback in their push for a Champions League spot when they were held to a 2-2 draw at home to Burnley in the Premier League on Monday and tempers flared at the end of the match when Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri was sent to the stands. Jeff Hendrick gave Burnley an early lead with a crisp volley before N'Golo Kante and Gonzalo Higuain put the home side 2-1 ahead by the 14th minute. However, Ashley Barnes drew the visitors level 10 minutes later. After Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and Arsenal all lost at the weekend, Chelsea had an opportunity to tighten their grip on the Premier League's top four places. The draw pushed Chelsea up a place into fourth spot in the Premier League, level on points with third-placed Spurs and one point ahead of Arsenal, both of whom have a played a game less. Burnley remained 15th are nine points clear of the relegation zone with three games left to play. On a frustrating night for Chelsea, teenager Callum Hudson-Odoi had to be helped off the pitch shortly before halftime after suffering a serious Achilles tendon injury. Chelsea's frustration at failing to claim all three points boiled over when referee Kevin Friend sent Sarri off after the Italian coach became embroiled in a scuffle amongst players on the touchline in the dying moments. "You can understand he is frustrated about the game," said Chelsea assistant coach Gianfranco Zola, who stood in for Sarri in the post-match news conference. Zola said Sarri had sought to get his players out of the scuffle but the referee "misinterpreted it; we are very unhappy about it." Zola added Sarri had been offended by a comment from the Burnley bench. Chelsea defender David Luiz accused Burnley of playing "anti-football" by wasting time and employing negative tactics. Burnley coach Sean Dyche bristled at the "anti-football" suggestion and praised his players for withstanding Chelsea's pressure. "There are nights like tonight when you just have to give everything, every inch," he said. "You know, it used to be a really good thing when fans see their team give everything. They used to love it and maybe it’s still got a place." It was Burnley -- seeking to avoid being sucked back into the relegation fight -- who struck first when Hendrick volleyed home in the eighth minute after a headed clearance found him in space on the edge of the penalty area. Chelsea hit back with two goals in two minutes. First, winger Eden Hazard bamboozled Burnley's defence before cutting the ball back for Kante to sweep home. Then Higuain blasted a shot in off the underside of the crossbar in the 14th minute. Ten minutes later, Burnley were level again when Barnes evaded his marker at the back post to connect with a headed flick-on from Chris Wood. After the end-to-end drama of the first 45 minutes, Chelsea dominated possession in the second half but failed to break down Burnley's defence.

Chelsea held 2-2 by Burnley, denting Champions League hopes

Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi has confirmed that his season is over after he ruptured his Achilles' tendon in Monday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-held-2-2-by-burnley-denting-champions-league-hopes-212835">2-2 Premier League draw with Burnley</a>.

The 18-year-old was helped off the pitch shortly before halftime and said on social media that he would play no further part in Chelsea's campaign.

"Really gutted to end my season with a ruptured Achilles, gotta work hard and try and come back stronger for next season," he said on Twitter.

The injury rules Hudson-Odoi out of Chelsea's last three Premier League games of the season, against Manchester United, Watford and Leicester City.

He will also miss their Europa League semi-final against Germany's Eintracht Frankfurt, the first leg of which is on May 2.

The draw with Burnley lifted Chelsea up to fourth in the Premier League table, a point above fifth-placed Arsenal, who have played one game less.

Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi has confirmed that his season is over after he ruptured his Achilles' tendon in Monday's 2-2 Premier League draw with Burnley. The 18-year-old was helped off the pitch shortly before halftime and said on social media that he would play no further part in Chelsea's campaign.

Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi has confirmed that his season is over after he ruptured his Achilles' tendon in Monday's 2-2 Premier League draw with Burnley. The 18-year-old was helped off the pitch shortly before halftime and said on social media that he would play no further part in Chelsea's campaign. "Really gutted to end my season with a ruptured Achilles, gotta work hard and try and come back stronger for next season," he said on Twitter. The injury rules Hudson-Odoi out of Chelsea's last three Premier League games of the season, against Manchester United, Watford and Leicester City. He will also miss their Europa League semi-final against Germany's Eintracht Frankfurt, the first leg of which is on May 2. The draw with Burnley lifted Chelsea up to fourth in the Premier League table, a point above fifth-placed Arsenal, who have played one game less.

Chelsea's Hudson-Odoi confirms season over due to Achilles injury

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri did not attend the post-match media conference after his side missed out on the chance to go into third place in the Premier League standings after they were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-held-2-2-by-burnley-denting-champions-league-hopes-212835">held to a 2-2 draw by Burnley</a> on Monday.&nbsp;

Gianfranco Zola, who appeared at the press conference rather than Maurizio Sarri, explained the reason why the Italian boss refused to face the media.&nbsp;

Zola said that Sarri was "very frustrated" when he was sent to the stands by th referee at the end of the match.&nbsp;

"The reason is (he is) very frustrated and so he preferred not to come over here, is being sent off. I think he's been offended as well, so he didn't feel that it was the right thing to do to come over here to talk to you," said Zola.&nbsp;

"I know that you wanted him, but you can understand he is frustrated about the game. Frustrated because he's been sent off and for the other thing I told you before and so he preferred not to, not to come over here," he added.&nbsp;

In the match, Burnley took an eighth-minute lead following a stunning volley from Jeff Hendrick, but Chelsea replied with two goals in as many minutes from N'Golo Kante and Gonzalo Higuain.&nbsp;

Burnley stuck to their guns and Ashley Barnes equalised in the 24th minute.&nbsp;

That was that in terms of goals - Chelsea struggled to convert their superior possession into tangible chances in front of goal over the rest of the game and frustration boiled over towards the end.&nbsp;

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri did not attend the post-match media conference after his side missed out on the chance to go into third place in the Premier League standings after they were held to a 2-2 draw by Burnley on Monday.

Chelsea head coach Maurizio Sarri did not attend the post-match media conference after his side missed out on the chance to go into third place in the Premier League standings after they were held to a 2-2 draw by Burnley on Monday. Gianfranco Zola, who appeared at the press conference rather than Maurizio Sarri, explained the reason why the Italian boss refused to face the media. Zola said that Sarri was "very frustrated" when he was sent to the stands by th referee at the end of the match. "The reason is (he is) very frustrated and so he preferred not to come over here, is being sent off. I think he's been offended as well, so he didn't feel that it was the right thing to do to come over here to talk to you," said Zola. "I know that you wanted him, but you can understand he is frustrated about the game. Frustrated because he's been sent off and for the other thing I told you before and so he preferred not to, not to come over here," he added. In the match, Burnley took an eighth-minute lead following a stunning volley from Jeff Hendrick, but Chelsea replied with two goals in as many minutes from N'Golo Kante and Gonzalo Higuain. Burnley stuck to their guns and Ashley Barnes equalised in the 24th minute. That was that in terms of goals - Chelsea struggled to convert their superior possession into tangible chances in front of goal over the rest of the game and frustration boiled over towards the end.

Gianfranco Zola explains Maurizio Sarri's no-show at press conference after Burnley draw

Chelsea reached the Europa League semi-finals by beating Slavia Prague 4-3 in a roller-coaster game on Thursday, helped by a Pedro brace in a first-half onslaught before withstanding a comeback bid by the Czechs after the break.

Chelsea, who will face Eintracht Frankfurt in the last four, were cruising 4-1 at halftime but Slavia's Petr Sevcik slammed home two strikes early in the second half, narrowing the aggregate score to 5-3.

With the Stamford Bridge crowd increasingly unsettled, and Slavia being roared on by their travelling fans, Sevcik spurned a chance to cut the deficit further.

But Chelsea, having won the first leg 1-0, held on to set up a semi against Eintracht, who beat visiting Benfica 2-0 to go through on away goals after a 4-4 aggregate scoreline.

A Chelsea triumph in the Europa League, a trophy they won in 2013, would secure a way back into the prestigious Champions League if they finish outside Premier League top four this season. They currently sit fifth in the table.

There was little hint of the tension to come when Chelsea raced into a 3-0 lead within 17 minutes, starting with Pedro chipping goalkeeper Ondrej Kolar after exchanging passes with Cesar Azpilicueta and Olivier Giroud in the fifth.

The Spain winger hit the post four minutes later only for the ball to rebound off Simon Deli's face for an own goal.

It was Pedro who carved out Chelsea's third when he squared for a simple finish by Giroud and the scurrying Spaniard claimed Chelsea's fourth in the 27th minute when he converted a rebound after Kolar saved from Giroud.

A minute earlier, Slavia's captain Tomas Soucek had given the boisterous Czech fans something to cheer when he powered in a header from a corner, leaving the door open for the visitors' improbable attempt to turn the game around.

Familiar problem

Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri said he had to get to the bottom of the familiar problem of his side losing their way in the second half of matches.

On Sunday, Chelsea conceded two goals shortly after the break in a 2-0 defeat at Liverpool in the Premier League, a pattern seen in other games.

"As usual in the last two months we started very badly in the second half," Sarri told reporters. "It's a big problem... We need a solution, we need to solve this problem."

Sarri, who has never won a major final as a coach, said he was determined to see his side triumph this time.

"For me, I think it is very important first of all to get to the final, but this time I don't want to just get to the final, I want to win the final," he said.

Slavia coach Jindrich Trpisovsky lamented his side's defensive performance in the opening 45 minutes.

"If we had managed the first half better, I think we could have gone through," he said. "Everyone says the English Premier League is the example to follow and that we cannot play against teams like this. But I think we showed today that we can."

Chelsea reached the Europa League semi-finals by beating Slavia Prague 4-3 in a roller-coaster game on Thursday, helped by a Pedro brace in a first-half onslaught before withstanding a comeback bid by the Czechs after the break.

Chelsea reached the Europa League semi-finals by beating Slavia Prague 4-3 in a roller-coaster game on Thursday, helped by a Pedro brace in a first-half onslaught before withstanding a comeback bid by the Czechs after the break. Chelsea, who will face Eintracht Frankfurt in the last four, were cruising 4-1 at halftime but Slavia's Petr Sevcik slammed home two strikes early in the second half, narrowing the aggregate score to 5-3. With the Stamford Bridge crowd increasingly unsettled, and Slavia being roared on by their travelling fans, Sevcik spurned a chance to cut the deficit further. But Chelsea, having won the first leg 1-0, held on to set up a semi against Eintracht, who beat visiting Benfica 2-0 to go through on away goals after a 4-4 aggregate scoreline. A Chelsea triumph in the Europa League, a trophy they won in 2013, would secure a way back into the prestigious Champions League if they finish outside Premier League top four this season. They currently sit fifth in the table. There was little hint of the tension to come when Chelsea raced into a 3-0 lead within 17 minutes, starting with Pedro chipping goalkeeper Ondrej Kolar after exchanging passes with Cesar Azpilicueta and Olivier Giroud in the fifth. The Spain winger hit the post four minutes later only for the ball to rebound off Simon Deli's face for an own goal. It was Pedro who carved out Chelsea's third when he squared for a simple finish by Giroud and the scurrying Spaniard claimed Chelsea's fourth in the 27th minute when he converted a rebound after Kolar saved from Giroud. A minute earlier, Slavia's captain Tomas Soucek had given the boisterous Czech fans something to cheer when he powered in a header from a corner, leaving the door open for the visitors' improbable attempt to turn the game around. Familiar problem Chelsea coach Maurizio Sarri said he had to get to the bottom of the familiar problem of his side losing their way in the second half of matches. On Sunday, Chelsea conceded two goals shortly after the break in a 2-0 defeat at Liverpool in the Premier League, a pattern seen in other games. "As usual in the last two months we started very badly in the second half," Sarri told reporters. "It's a big problem... We need a solution, we need to solve this problem." Sarri, who has never won a major final as a coach, said he was determined to see his side triumph this time. "For me, I think it is very important first of all to get to the final, but this time I don't want to just get to the final, I want to win the final," he said. Slavia coach Jindrich Trpisovsky lamented his side's defensive performance in the opening 45 minutes. "If we had managed the first half better, I think we could have gone through," he said. "Everyone says the English Premier League is the example to follow and that we cannot play against teams like this. But I think we showed today that we can."

Europa League: Chelsea beat Slavia 4-3 to book Europa League semi

A spectacular strike from Mohamed Salah helped Liverpool maintain their two-point lead over Manchester City in the Premier League title race with a 2-0 win over Chelsea at Anfield on Sunday.

City won 3-1 at Crystal Palace earlier on Sunday meaning Liverpool have 85 points with four games to go and City are on 83 with an additional match to play.

After a tight and tactical first half, Liverpool broke through in the 51st minute when Jordan Henderson picked out Sadio Mane at the back post and the Senegalese forward confidently headed home.

Anfield erupted two minutes later when Mohamed Salah scored a sensational second -- the Egyptian receiving the ball on the right flank and cutting inside before unleashing an unstoppable drive from 25 metres out into the far, top corner.

Chelsea responded positively, though, with David Luiz picking out Eden Hazard with a ball over the top, the Belgian beating the advancing Alisson Becker only to see his shot bounce out off the post.

Moments later, Becker then had to be alert to keep out a Hazard shot from a Willian cross as Chelsea searched in vain for a way back.

A spectacular strike from Mohamed Salah helped Liverpool maintain their two-point lead over Manchester City in the Premier League title race with a 2-0 win over Chelsea at Anfield on Sunday.

A spectacular strike from Mohamed Salah helped Liverpool maintain their two-point lead over Manchester City in the Premier League title race with a 2-0 win over Chelsea at Anfield on Sunday. City won 3-1 at Crystal Palace earlier on Sunday meaning Liverpool have 85 points with four games to go and City are on 83 with an additional match to play. After a tight and tactical first half, Liverpool broke through in the 51st minute when Jordan Henderson picked out Sadio Mane at the back post and the Senegalese forward confidently headed home. Anfield erupted two minutes later when Mohamed Salah scored a sensational second -- the Egyptian receiving the ball on the right flank and cutting inside before unleashing an unstoppable drive from 25 metres out into the far, top corner. Chelsea responded positively, though, with David Luiz picking out Eden Hazard with a ball over the top, the Belgian beating the advancing Alisson Becker only to see his shot bounce out off the post. Moments later, Becker then had to be alert to keep out a Hazard shot from a Willian cross as Chelsea searched in vain for a way back.

Mohamed Salah screamer gives Liverpool vital win against Chelsea

Liverpool manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Jurgen+Klopp">Jurgen Klopp</a> has appealed that the Chelsea fans who were filmed singing a racist song about Mohamed Salah should get a lifetime stadium ban.&nbsp;

In a Europa League match, three Chelsea fans were stopped from entering Slavia Prague's stadium after an alleged racist chant about Liverpool's Egypt international <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-fc-condemn-fans-calling-liverpools-mohamed-salah-a-bomber-209808">Mohamed Salah</a> circulated on social media.&nbsp;

It has been reported that the fans were apparently chanting "Salah is a bomber" repeatedly.&nbsp;

Salah, Player of the Year in England last season and winner of the African Footballer of the Year award for the second time in a row in January, is of Muslim faith.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-managers-stand-togerther-to-fight-against-racist-abuse-206678">Premier League managers stand together to 'fight' racism in football</a>&nbsp;

Liverpool's boss, in a press conference, said, "It's disgusting."&nbsp;

He further added, "Another example of something which should not happen. We should not see it as a Chelsea or Liverpool thing."

"If you do something like that you should not be able to enter a stadium again, from my point of view, for life."

"As a part of the football community, I can say these people should not be involved. Go in each dressing room in the world and they are all sitting there; no one cares where their parents are from."

"Football has a strong voice, and we have to use that voice and show that we all think the same. Things like this should not be allowed to happen again."

In an official statement released on their website, Chelsea said condemned any form of discriminatory behaviour directed towards Salah.

Chelsea will meet Liverpool in a Premier League fixture on April 14.&nbsp;

Merseyside Police said they were investigating publication of offensive Tweets made in relation to a Liverpool player.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has appealed that the Chelsea fans who were filmed singing a racist song about Mohamed Salah should get a lifetime stadium ban. In a Europa League match, three Chelsea fans were stopped from entering Slavia Prague's stadium after an alleged racist chant about Liverpool's Egypt international Mohamed Salah circulated on social media.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has appealed that the Chelsea fans who were filmed singing a racist song about Mohamed Salah should get a lifetime stadium ban. In a Europa League match, three Chelsea fans were stopped from entering Slavia Prague's stadium after an alleged racist chant about Liverpool's Egypt international Mohamed Salah circulated on social media. It has been reported that the fans were apparently chanting "Salah is a bomber" repeatedly. Salah, Player of the Year in England last season and winner of the African Footballer of the Year award for the second time in a row in January, is of Muslim faith. Also Read: Premier League managers stand together to 'fight' racism in football Liverpool's boss, in a press conference, said, "It's disgusting." He further added, "Another example of something which should not happen. We should not see it as a Chelsea or Liverpool thing." "If you do something like that you should not be able to enter a stadium again, from my point of view, for life." "As a part of the football community, I can say these people should not be involved. Go in each dressing room in the world and they are all sitting there; no one cares where their parents are from." "Football has a strong voice, and we have to use that voice and show that we all think the same. Things like this should not be allowed to happen again." In an official statement released on their website, Chelsea said condemned any form of discriminatory behaviour directed towards Salah. Chelsea will meet Liverpool in a Premier League fixture on April 14. Merseyside Police said they were investigating publication of offensive Tweets made in relation to a Liverpool player.

Jurgen Klopp demands lifetime ban for Chelsea fans singing racist song about Mohamed Salah

Tottenham manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Mauricio+Pochettino">Mauricio Pochettino</a> said that he doesn't consider his side favourites in the English Premier League considering their performance in previous three-four years.&nbsp;

Tottenham face already relegated Huddersfield in the Premier League on Saturday without Harry Kane or Dele Ali.&nbsp;

Kane is likely to miss the rest of the season with an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tottenhams-harry-kane-has-significant-ankle-ligament-damage-209692">ankle injury</a> picked up in their Champions League win over Manchester City, while Dele Ali broke his hand in two places.&nbsp;

"Taking the past, the last few years, I don't think that we are favourites," said Pochettino in a press conference.&nbsp;

He added, "We are below them (Chelsea, Arsenal) but maybe with our belief, our confidence, maybe we are above. We trust in ourselves and are confident we are going to get the top four."&nbsp;

"I think it is going to be tough, it is exciting, amazing for everyone. For us, not so much. But it is going to be fantastic to achieve the top four at the end of the season."

Tottenham need the victory against Huddersfield to keep on track for Champions League football next season.

They are currently one point above Arsenal, but one behind Chelsea.&nbsp;

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said that he doesn't consider his side favourites in the English Premier League considering their performance in previous three-four years.

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino said that he doesn't consider his side favourites in the English Premier League considering their performance in previous three-four years. Tottenham face already relegated Huddersfield in the Premier League on Saturday without Harry Kane or Dele Ali. Kane is likely to miss the rest of the season with an ankle injury picked up in their Champions League win over Manchester City, while Dele Ali broke his hand in two places. "Taking the past, the last few years, I don't think that we are favourites," said Pochettino in a press conference. He added, "We are below them (Chelsea, Arsenal) but maybe with our belief, our confidence, maybe we are above. We trust in ourselves and are confident we are going to get the top four." "I think it is going to be tough, it is exciting, amazing for everyone. For us, not so much. But it is going to be fantastic to achieve the top four at the end of the season." Tottenham need the victory against Huddersfield to keep on track for Champions League football next season. They are currently one point above Arsenal, but one behind Chelsea.

Mauricio Pochettino believes Tottenham not favourites to get the top four

A late header by defender Marcos Alonso and Kepa Arrizabalaga's goalkeeping heroics helped Chelsea beat a stubborn Slavia Prague 1-0 in their Europa League quarter-final, first leg on Thursday.

Spaniard Alonso broke the deadlock for the west London side in the 86th minute when he sneaked behind two defenders to connect with Willian's cross and score what proved to be the winner in the first competitive meeting between the two sides.

"I'm very happy with the result and also with the performance because at this moment we are able to suffer, in the past we were not," Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri told reporters.

"In the past, when we were in trouble, we conceded immediately a goal, now we did not concede anything."

Sarri made seven changes from the team that beat West Ham United 2-0 in the Premier League on Monday, with talisman Eden Hazard coming off the bench for the last half an hour.

Willian's fierce shot hit the bar in the first half before the hosts had a chance to open the scoring on the counter in the 69th minute when Ibrahim Traore drive into the Chelsea box and struck a shot that was superbly punched away by Kepa.

The Spanish goalkeeper then kept out left-back Jan Boril's close-range shot in the 80th minute.

Alonso's goal gave the Blues a vital away goal as they put behind them bitter memories of the stadium where they lost the 2013 Super Cup to Bayern Munich in a penalty shootout.

Slavia defender Simon Deli said: “It’s disappointing because we did very well and in the last minutes we conceded this kind of goal. Of course, it’s difficult for us, but it’s football.

"Now we’ll prepare for our next game - the derby - and then against Chelsea in London,” he added referring to the Czech league leaders' game against third-placed Sparta on Sunday.

A late header by defender Marcos Alonso and Kepa Arrizabalaga's goalkeeping heroics helped Chelsea beat a stubborn Slavia Prague 1-0 in their Europa League quarter-final, first leg on Thursday.

A late header by defender Marcos Alonso and Kepa Arrizabalaga's goalkeeping heroics helped Chelsea beat a stubborn Slavia Prague 1-0 in their Europa League quarter-final, first leg on Thursday. Spaniard Alonso broke the deadlock for the west London side in the 86th minute when he sneaked behind two defenders to connect with Willian's cross and score what proved to be the winner in the first competitive meeting between the two sides. "I'm very happy with the result and also with the performance because at this moment we are able to suffer, in the past we were not," Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri told reporters. "In the past, when we were in trouble, we conceded immediately a goal, now we did not concede anything." Sarri made seven changes from the team that beat West Ham United 2-0 in the Premier League on Monday, with talisman Eden Hazard coming off the bench for the last half an hour. Willian's fierce shot hit the bar in the first half before the hosts had a chance to open the scoring on the counter in the 69th minute when Ibrahim Traore drive into the Chelsea box and struck a shot that was superbly punched away by Kepa. The Spanish goalkeeper then kept out left-back Jan Boril's close-range shot in the 80th minute. Alonso's goal gave the Blues a vital away goal as they put behind them bitter memories of the stadium where they lost the 2013 Super Cup to Bayern Munich in a penalty shootout. Slavia defender Simon Deli said: “It’s disappointing because we did very well and in the last minutes we conceded this kind of goal. Of course, it’s difficult for us, but it’s football. "Now we’ll prepare for our next game - the derby - and then against Chelsea in London,” he added referring to the Czech league leaders' game against third-placed Sparta on Sunday.

Europa League: Late Alonso header, Kepa saves hand Chelsea win in Prague

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