The behaviour of supporters singing Roman Abramovich's name at Chelsea matches has been condemned by the government, with Boris Johnson's spoksesperson describing it as 'completely inappropriate'.
Groups of Blues fans have made their sentiments to the Russian owner clear in recent matches, singing his name after Abramovich decided to sell the club, to show their appreciation. A cohort of fans interrupted a show of solidarity with Ukraine ahead of kick-off against Burnley, which was swiftly criticised by Thomas Tuchel.
"It's not the moment to do this," he said at Turf Moor. "Listen, if we show solidarity we show solidarity and we should do it together. We take the knee together and if an important person from our club or another club unfortunately dies, we show a minute of respect.
READ MORE: Jorginho agrees with Gary Neville over Kai Havertz as Chelsea star breaks personal record
"It's not the moment to give other messages. It's the moment to show respect. We do this because this is what we are also as a club. We show respect as a club and we need our fans to commit to this minute of applause. At this moment, we do it for Ukraine and there is no second opinion about the situation there. They have our thoughts and our support. We should stand together as a club. It's not the moment for other messages."
The song has remained at matches since the UK government announced sanctions against the 55-year-old oligarch, that have included limitations on how Chelsea can operate. Abramovich's name was sung ahead of the game against Norwich and during the 90 minutes at Carrow Road.
While the chant's presence appeared diminished at Stamford Bridge against Newcastle United, it did emerge on the 65th minute, but did not take long for it to be drowned out. The government spokesman made the Prime Minister's stance on any such activity clear.
He said: "We recognise the strength of feeling around people’s clubs but that does not excuse behaviour which is completely inappropriate at this time. I think people can show passion and support for their club without resorting to that sort of stuff."
