Thomas Tuchel ‘understands’ criticism of Chelsea after Russia invades Ukraine

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel insists he ‘understands’ criticism directed at the Premier League club in response to the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Labour MP Chris Bryant has urged the UK government to seize Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich’s assets.

Earlier in the week, the government announced it would impose sanctions on three billionaires with close links to Russian President Vladimir Putin as part of the UK’s response to Russia’s invasion.

Mr Abramovich is one of Russia’s richest people and is believed to be close to President Putin.

For the latest updates on the Russia-Ukraine war, visit our live blog: Russia-Ukraine live

The Russian military began theirinvasion in eastern Europe on Thursday and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday evening that the Russians will storm the capital Kyiv in the coming hours.

Chelsea boss Tuchel, who is preparing for Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Liverpool at Wembley, said: ‘We shouldn’t pretend this is not an issue. The situation for everyone here is horrible.

‘Nobody expected this, it’s pretty unreal. It’s clouding our minds, and our excitement towards the final.

‘It brings huge uncertainty, much more to all people in the moment more involved than us. We send our best wishes and regards to them, obviously.

‘Still there are so many uncertainties around the situation of our club, in the UK with scenarios like this, that it makes no sense if I comment on it.

‘We’re aware of it, we haven’t got so much insight or inside information than you might think, and in the very end, I think it’s also the right from the team and staff to be not political, to focus on sports. Not because we are hiding, but the situation is clear, it’s horrible, no doubt about it.

‘I’d love to take my