Crespo set for Blues return

Hernan Crespo was scheduled to begin pre-season training with Chelsea this morning following the breakdown of his move to AC Milan.

Crespo, who arrived at Stamford Bridge for £16.8m (€24.4m) in August 2003, joined the Italian giants on loan last summer after a disappointing first season in the Barclays Premiership.

The 30-year-old Argentina striker impressed for Milan, scoring 16 goals, and had been expected to extend his stay at the San Siro – either in a new year-long loan deal or permanently.

But negotiations between the two clubs stalled with Milan consequently signing Christian Vieri after his shock release from city rivals Inter.

Despite Crespo’s reluctance to return to Chelsea – he never settled during his year in London – the club has insisted he return to pre-season training, starting today.

He joins midfielder Claude Makelele, who yesterday linked-up with his team-mates for the first time this summer, leaving just Didier Drogba, Geremi and Robert Huth to return.