Chelsea withdraw request to play FA Cup QF behind closed doors

Chelsea have withdrawn a request to play their FA Cup quarter-final clash against Middlesbrough behind closed doors, that’s according to the Football Association (FA).

This comes after the Blues had initially made the request “for matters of sporting integrity”.

Thomas Tuchel’s side is set to face the Boro on Saturday, 19 March at Riverside Stadium.

Chelsea are not allowed to sell tickets for any matches after the UK government froze the assets of Russian owner Roman Abramovich.

“After constructive talks between the FA and Chelsea, the club has agreed to remove their request,” read the FA statement.

“The FA remains in ongoing discussions with Chelsea, the Premier League and the government to find a solution that would enable both Chelsea fans to attend games and away fans to attend Stamford Bridge, and ensuring sanctions are respected.”

Meanwhile, Chelsea stated that they are “grateful for the FA’s continuing efforts to help the club find a solution”.

On the positive note, the prime minister’s official spokesman said the government is working with the football authorities to allow more Chelsea supporters to attend away matches, but added that any changes must ensure “no additional revenue can be raised given the club is owned by an individual now sanctioned in the UK”.