Thomas Tuchel believes Ricketts family has ‘to face the consequences’ ahead of planned Chelsea protest

Thomas Tuchel says the Ricketts family must “face the consequences” ahead of planned protest from Chelsea fans over the Americans’ bud to buy the club.

Sections of support have used social media to try to gather opposition to the owners of the Chicago Cubs using #NoToRicketts to gather momentum.

They are angered by historic racist emails from the family’s patriarch, Joe, despite the fact he is not involved in the bid.

The Ricketts’ are planning to meet with fans again after already speaking to the club’s Supporters’ Trust - but strong opposition remains.

The four shortlisted candidates to buy out Roman Abramovich will get the chance to meet Tuchel.

When asked about the weight of feeling against the Ricketts’ in some quarters, the Chelsea manager said: “Nowadays you have to deal with it and you have to face the consequences if you are responsible for these kind of quotes. You have to face the consequences.

“If one of the consequences is that the fans do a protest or give their opinions you have to deal with it.”

But Tuchel also pleaded with supporters not to let their opposition be allowed to impact on their pursuit of trophies season.

He added: “I hope it will not disturb the team and the fans who support us will remember we have a team who is challenging in three competitions in a crucial moment of the season and don’t distract them in their approach to the stadium or in the stadium during the game.

“We have enough to deal with at the moment. We don’t need another issue.”

Bidders are set to meet key figures at Chelsea, including chairman Bruce Buck, director Marina Granovskaia and Tuchel, if desired.

Tuchel says he would not be a peace-broker between future owners and fans.

“It’s better not to be involved because I