Former England defender Micah Richards has accused Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich of delivering a message "almost written in code" as the Russian announced his future plans in west London.
Abramovich has pledged to put the "stewardship and care" of the club into the hands of its charitable foundation, prompting broadcaster Piers Morgan to call for the 55-year-old to "denounce the war loudly and clearly".
The statement from the Chelsea owner, delivered less than 24 hours before Chelsea's Carabao Cup final meeting with Liverpool, was read out in the Sky Sports studio during coverage of Manchester City's Premier League meeting with Everton.
