Blues play down significance of Abramovich visit

Chelsea have denied claims owner Roman Abramovich held ‘showdown’ talks with manager Andre Villas-Boas before the club’s breathtaking 3-3 draw with Manchester United.

The Blues confirmed Abramovich spoke to Villas-Boas during a rare visit to the club’s training ground on Saturday before attending Sunday’s Premier League game at Stamford Bridge.

But they insist the Russian billionaire remains fully behind the 34-year-old’s project, following a report he had become frustrated with results under the Portuguese.