Farewell Roman, and thanks for all the trophies.

Paul Lagan at Kenilworth Road

He’s hardly said a word in public for almost 20 years, but Roman Abramovich has not stopped speaking in the media in the past couple of days.

The Russian owner of Chelsea FC has decided to call it a day at SW6.

The military invasion by his home country of Ukraine has forced his hand and he’s opted to sell the club, before it’s future falls into even more doubt in the coming weeks.

He had hoped to pass on the ownership to a bunch of people who were trustees to the club’s ultra successful foundation.

That quickly dissipated under a barrage of questions about the move, that ultimately forced his hand.

Mr Abramovich issued the following statement tonight.

“Chelsea FC. As I have stated before, I have always taken decisions with the Club’s best interest at heart. In the current situation, I have therefore taken the decision to sell the Club, as I believe this is in the best interest of the Club, the fans, the employees, as well as the Club’s sponsors and partners.

“The sale of the Club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process. I will not be asking for any loans to be repaid. This has never been about business nor money for me, but about pure passion for the game and Club. “Moreover, I have instructed my team to set up a charitable foundation where all net proceeds from the sale will be donated. The foundation will be for the benefit of all victims of the war in Ukraine. This includes providing critical funds towards the urgent and immediate needs of victims, as well as supporting the long-term work of recovery.“

”Please know that this has been an incredibly difficult decision to make, and it pains me to part with the Club in this manner. However, I do believe this is in the best interest of the Club. “I hope that I will be able to visit Stamford Bridge one last time to say goodbye to all of you in person. It has been a privilege of a lifetime to be part of Chelsea FC and I am proud of all our joint achievements. Chelsea Football Club and its supporters will always be in my heart. Thank you, Roman”

So there you have it. Who will buy the club, how much is it worth, when will it happen?

This is just the start of the process, but if you have a spare £3billion in your back pocket, can pass the fit and proper owner’s test, have no links to anyone or national or international situation that could damage the club, get in contact.

Roman would love to speak to you.