Blues deny Russia bonuses report

Chelsea have rejected suggestions that the club's billionaire owner Roman Abramovich had offered Russia's players £40,000-a-man to beat England.

Abramovich was accused of funding the bonus plan through the National Football Academy along with the Russian Football Union. It was alleged that £15,000-per-man was being paid for by the Russian Football Union while the remaining sum would be guaranteed by the Abramovich-backed Academy.

But a Chelsea statement, posted on the club's official website, said: "Contrary to media reports in Russia and Britain, Chelsea would like to clarify that Roman Abramovich has never offered, proposed or promised any bonuses to the Russian team to beat England."

The statement continued: "The financial backing Mr Abramovich gives to Russian football, via his National Academy of Football foundation, is for the development of the game as a whole and is not focused on specific matches.

"Mr Abramovich supports grassroots football initiatives through such efforts as building football pitches, helping to organise youth sports academies and providing training for coaches."

Meanwhile, Chelsea's £13 million summer signing Florent Malouda admits he is still adapting to the rigours of the Barclays Premier League despite an encouraging start to his Stamford Bridge career.

Malouda joined the Blues from Lyon and has started five games for Jose Mourinho's side so far this season.

But Malouda says there are still difficulties to overcome - namely the battle for a regular first team place - but is relishing the challenge ahead.

Malouda said: "I am fine at Chelsea. I am still in an adaptation period. But that does not surprise me. It's not all roses - there are some difficulties.

"At first, there is very strong competition. Moreover, it is another culture. I have to swallow that. But I am happy, It is a new and exciting challenge. It is really great to be in this situation, with a lot of expectations around you. That gives me responsibilities and I love that."