Roberto Di Matteo: 'Players aren't out of control'

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 05 October 2012

Chelsea boss Roberto Di Matteo insists that his players aren't out of control despite Ashley Cole sending an abusive tweet aimed at the FA.

Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo has insisted that his players are not out of control despite Ashley Cole sending a controversial tweet earlier today.

Cole risked the wrath of the FA by branding them a "bunch of twats" following their allegations that his evidence in John Terry's racism case changed over time.

Di Matteo warned that players need to be responsible when using social media, but claimed that he will only judge his players on what they do on the field.

"I judge the players on what I see when they train and play, and I try and select a team that will hopefully be able to win against Norwich. That is my job," said the Italian.

"I always said about the social networks that it is a good vehicle if used appropriately. Players need to realise that tweets can be viewed by anybody and they have to be responsible.

"I do not think the players, apart from this, are out of control. I need to see the reasoning behind it."

Cole was named in Roy Hodgson's squad to face San Marino and Poland yesterday, but his place in the side is now in serious doubt.