Gary Neville would not want Roman Abramovich 'kicked out of Chelsea'

Gary Neville admits he would not want to see Roman Abramovich kicked out of Chelsea or English football despite his alleged links to Vladimir Putin.

The Russian billionaire and owner of Chelsea has been in the headlines of late as due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine the UK Government has faced calls to freeze Abramovich’s assets, as well as anyone who allegedly has ties with Putin, as part of its sanctions against Russia.

Abramovich has always denied any link with Russia’s president but just days after handing over stewardship of the club he has now confirmed he has put Chelsea up for sale.

It spells the end of a near 20-year ownership of Chelsea in which he’s helped them win 18 trophies, and former Manchester United defender Neville feels the 55-year-old has played a huge part in the growth of the Premier League.

‘There are alleged links between Abramovich and Putin,’ Neville said at the Football Business Summit before news of Abramovich selling was confirmed.

‘I think what he [Putin] has done this week has meant the association with Chelsea and Abramovich has become a problem.

‘Am I in a situation where I feel Roman Abramovich should be kicked out of Chelsea, should be kicked out English football? No I am actually not there.

‘In respect of Abramovich and Chelsea, he has been an owner of Chelsea now for 20 years and from my point of view I have spoken openly about how I have welcomed the challenge to the historical elite, which was Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal.

‘New money into Chelsea, Blackburn all those years ago when Jack Walker put money in, Leicester City winning the league, Manchester City and the Abu Dhabi wealth, I do believe we are a stronger league for it, more competitive and admired all around