Bates: Cudicini stays with Blues

Chelsea chairman Ken Bates has insisted that in-form goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini is not for sale following his call-up to the Italian national squad.

Cudicini’s superb recent displays, ensuring Chelsea have now kept five consecutive Premiership clean sheets, have not only impressed the Italian management team but also Serie A clubs such as Roma and AC Milan.

The Italian keeper has heard the rumours and while stressing “life in London is great”, did little to dampen any speculation by also insisting that “you never say never”.

Bates, however, was unequivocal in his declaration that the 29-year-old keeper, who signed a new long-term contract only last season, would not be for sale when the transfer window opens in January.

He declared: “The chant by the Chelsea fans is ’Carlo for England’ but we can only wish. How much is he worth? Since we’re not going to sell him, it doesn’t really matter. And what’s more, he doesn’t want to go.”

Bates told Chelsea’s in-house radio station Big Blue: “I’m delighted for Carlo with his call-up as he’s a great guy, who is very modest and has got a very nice agent, a realistic one who is great to do business with.

“Carlo was signed for £160,000 (€250,000) but kept his cool and was very patient in coming through into the first team.”