Why Roman Abramovich's decision to sell Chelsea was both a shock and not a shock

The most significant evening in Chelsea's recent history started as the news of owner Roman Abramovich's decision to sell the club swept around the unlikely surroundings of Kenilworth Road.

Abramovich, the Russian whose fortune has fuelled Chelsea's collection of 17 major trophies since he took control in July 2003, delivered his proposed departure in a statementexternal-link released 62 minutes before the start of their FA Cup fifth-round tie at Luton Town.

As Chelsea's fans filed through the narrow streets in a downpour and on to the Oak Road End of this compact stadium, the significance of Abramovich's words sank in.

It was an incongruous setting for such a dramatic act to take place but, make no mistake, this was a seismic moment for the club recently crowned the world club champions. Those Chelsea fans will remember where they where when they heard the news.

Chelsea's fans have lived with the deal that Abramovich struck when he bought the club from Ken Bates for £140m. In exchange for success, large numbers of those fans have accepted his ruthlessness when it has come to changing managers. There have also been the allegations that he is close to Russian President Vladimir Putin, which he has denied.

Abramovich's Chelsea reversed the traditional rules of football. Instability brought success. The status quo was banished. Managers came and went but the trophies packed into Stamford Bridge with relentless regularity on his watch.

He delivered that silverware that made Chelsea England's most successful club during his time at Stamford Bridge. It was clear many of the away supporters at Kenilworth Road were still grateful for what he has given them measured by their reaction during their team's 3-2 win.

As Chelsea fans