The ban simply equates to TWO domestic matches per International missed. Unless this mess is sorted out and with lots of Euro qualifiers to be played between now and the end of the 2006/07 season, Claude will miss most of Chelsea's campaign to win back-to-back-to-back Premiership titles.

Claude is adamant that he told Domenech. Domenech is adamant the Claude didn't.

On this matter, Chelsea Football Club has released a statement, after the team's victory at Blackburn this afternoon. It reads:

Chelsea Football Club will be making further representations to the French Football Federation, after discussions with Claude Makelele, regarding his desire to retire from international football.

Chelsea FC believes that a player should have the freedom to choose about his own international career, especially in the case of Claude who has served his country at the highest level and with distinction for several years.

This view was expressed to the French national coach Raymond Domenech in a meeting last week at our training ground. We understand the letter of the law is very clear on this subject, and the ramifications for Claude and Chelsea if he is called up but does not play.

We would like to stress that this is not a club versus country issue, we are not seeking conflict with the FFF.

This issue is about supporting the wishes of one of our players whose past commitment to his country cannot be called into question.

And part of JM's post match interview this afternoon after Chelsea's 2-0 victory, included Claude Makelele to be 'being a slave and without human rights.'

COME ON CHELSEA!

41 YEARS A BLUE