Embarrassing FA Cup U-turn leaves Chelsea much to consider as they fail Tuchel and Middlesbrough

Chelsea supporters could be forgiven for hoping they could get through one day where they could focus on football and Champions League progression. It was no sooner than Chelsea's press conferences with Thomas Tuchel and Kai Havertz finished that the Blues dropped a bombshell.

The club announced they were reluctantly 'asking the FA board to direct the game be played behind closed doors for matters of sporting integrity'. On a day where many were still backing the club following Jamie Carragher's comments and criticisms on Monday Night Football, Chelsea displayed a funny way of saying thank you.

Nearly 600 supporters hold tickets for the trip to the Riverside and will still be allowed to go under the current licence Chelsea are operating under.

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The frustration that more are unable to, after discussions with Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation were not fruitful in time for Middlesbrough's deadline, is understandable. But what did the Blues really hope to achieve with their statement?

It could be seen as a weak attempt at strong-arming the government but when Chelsea supporters are those with most at risk, is that really wise? If they were to be successful in their attempt to play the game behind closed doors, they would potentially be consigning themselves to an empty Stamford Bridge until the end of the season.

The Supporters Trust put it well in their response: "We strongly urge the government to amend the license and allow supporters to obtain tickets. Playing behind closed doors does not benefit supporters."

Chelsea are a club that have been blessed with the ability to operate from a position of strength. Off the pitch