‘Hospital pass’ – Neville responds to Abramovich statement

Gary Neville has described Roman Abramovich’s statement on the ownership of Chelsea as a “hospital pass” to the club’s charitable foundation.

On Saturday evening, it was revealed that Abramovich had the “stewardship and care” of Chelsea to the club’s foundation trustees.

Abramovich will remain as Chelsea’s owner, but will not be involved in any decision making at the Stamford Bridge club.

Russian-Israeli billionaire Abramovich has taken the decision to protect Chelsea from continued links to the wider situation of Russia’s war with Ukraine, the PA news agency understands.

Chelsea’s senior leadership set-up will not change, it is understood, with chairman Bruce Buck now the west London club’s most senior figure.

“During my nearly 20-year ownership of Chelsea FC, I have always viewed my role as a custodian of the club, whose job it is ensuring that we are as successful as we can be today, as well as build for the future, while also playing a positive role in our communities,” read the statement from Abramovich.

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“I have always taken decisions with the club’s best interest at heart. I remain committed to these values.

“That is why I am today giving trustees of Chelsea’s charitable Foundation the stewardship and care of Chelsea FC.

“I believe that currently they are in the best position to look after the interests of the club, players, staff, and fans.”

And former Man Utd defender Neville has strongly criticised the statement regarding control of the club.

“I think when the news came through…last night myself and most others thought it was a noble gesture