Chelsea probe Marseille security claims

Chelsea are to investigate several incidents involving Marseille fans and claims by the French side’s security chief that he was thrown out of Stamford Bridge ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League match.

Guy Cazademont, Marseille’s head of security, has alleged he was grabbed around the waist by his Chelsea counterparts and forcibly ejected from the west London stadium before kick-off.

Cazademont added that Marseille’s stewards were not allowed to supervise their own fans during the match and were ordered to remain seated, while visiting supporters were prevented from displaying Marseille banners.

French champions Marseille have said they intend to refer the matter to UEFA, European football’s governing body.

A Chelsea spokesman said here on Wednesday: “There were a number of incidents at Tuesday evening’s game involving the away support, all of which are being fully investigated by Chelsea Football Club.

“We won’t be commenting further until those investigations are complete and the results have been shared with UEFA.”

English title-holders Chelsea won the Champions League Group F clash 2-0 thanks to first-half goals from captain John Terry and former France striker Nicolas Anelka, who scored from the penalty spot.