Chelsea have been hit by a further blow after shirt sponsors Three suspended their partnership with the Premier League club.
On Thursday morning, the British government announced that it was imposing sanctions on owner Roman Abramovich, a consequence of the Russian billionaire's links to Vladimir Putin.
Going forward, Chelsea will be prevented from benefitting from their normal revenue streams, as well as being told that they can no longer negotiate player contracts and future transfers, either in or out of Stamford Bridge.
Telecommunications brand Three has now moved to distance themselves from Chelsea, announcing that they do not want to see their logo on anything related to the West London outfit.
A statement read: "In light of the government's recently announced sanctions, we have requested Chelsea Football Club temporarily suspend our sponsorship of the club, including the removal of our brand from shirts and around the stadium until further notice.
"We recognise that this decision will impact the many Chelsea fans who follow their team passionately. However, we feel that given the circumstances, and the Government sanction that is in place, it is the right thing to do."
Despite the announcement, Chelsea have not had time to act ahead of Thursday's Premier League fixture at Norwich City, with a blank shirt being worn for the first time against Newcastle United on Sunday.
Darren Plant
