Chelsea settle with Bates

Chelsea have confirmed they have agreed a settlement with former chairman Ken Bates over his outstanding legal action against the club.

Bates launched a litigation claim from breach of contract but has now agreed there will be no further claims brought following this settlement.

The litigation claim was to be heard in the High Court in June 2005.

A Chelsea statement said: “This settlement has been agreed by Chelsea to avoid wasting more management time and to avoid incurring ever-increasing legal fees as a result of the forthcoming trial.

“In reaching this settlement, Chelsea has not admitted any liability. We are pleased of course that this litigation is now concluded and we wish Mr Bates well in the future.”