Chelsea’s FA Cup tie against Middlesbrough to be played behind closed doors

London [UK], March 16 (ANI): Premier League club Chelsea’s FA Cup quarter-final against Middlesbrough will be played behind closed doors, amid their ongoing ban over selling matchday tickets.

Chelsea’s ticket sales were halted on March 10 after the UK government sanctioned the club’s owner Roman Abramovich over his links with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Despite engaging in extensive discussions with the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), the deadline to purchase away tickets has passed without appropriate amendments being made to the Government licence which would allow a full allocation of Chelsea supporters to attend.

“After constructive talks between The FA and Chelsea, the club has agreed to remove their request for the Emirates FA Cup Quarter Final tie against Middlesbrough to be played behind closed doors,” FA said in a statement.

“The FA remains in ongoing discussions with Chelsea, the Premier League and the Government to find a solution that would enable both Chelsea fans to attend games and away fans to attend Stamford Bridge, whilst ensuring sanctions are respected,” stated further.

The Blues are currently only allowed to continue operating through a special licence granted by the UK government, which permits existing ticket holders to attend matches, but new sales – including home and away match day tickets – have not been allowed. (ANI)