Chelsea fans fly Roman Abramovich flags at Stamford Bridge after Russians punished for ties to Putin

CHELSEA fans proudly hung banners in support of Roman Abramovich after the billionaire was sanctioned by the UK government.

The tycoon was punished for having close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who ordered the invasion of Ukraine.

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Chelsea are currently unable to sell match tickets, only season ticket holders can attend matches at Stamford Bridge.

Abramovich is also banned from selling the club or any players, with the Russian unable to make any money from the club as his assets are frozen.

The Blues are also not allowed to sell any club merchandise or renew contracts with stars, only being allowed to sell food and drink in the stadium.

With the club struggling, fans showed their support for Abramovich, who took over the club in 2003.

A banner seen at Sunday’s Premier League clash at home against Newcastle read ‘Roman Empire’.

The sign features an image of Abramovich – a favorite with the Blues – with the inscription on the Russian flag.

Chelsea also lost £170m in funding between Just Three and carmaker Hyundai.

Even so, The Blues appeared in the carrying kits BOTH Company logo for the match against Newcastle.

However, the club were forced to change their team’s news posts on social media to broadcast the presence of their former sponsors.

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