Piers Morgan slams "weasel" Roman Abramovich as Chelsea boss steps back amid Putin links

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Piers Morgan has hit out at what he has described as "weasel words" from Roman Abramovich after the Chelsea owner announced he was handing over the stewardship of the football club.

Abramovich, who has been involved with the Carabao Cup finalists since 2003, issued a statement revealing he would put the "stewardship and care" of the club in the hands of its charitable foundation.

The move from the 55-year-old comes at a time when he continues to be accused of having links with Russian premier Vladimir Putin - something which Abramovich denies - with Russian actions in Ukraine prompting strong statements from a number of individuals and bodies across the footballing spectrum.

Broadcaster Morgan has now launched a stringing criticism of the Chelsea chief, calling on the oligarch to condemn Putin's actions outright.

"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.," Abramovich's statement on the Chelsea website reads.

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