Chelsea angered by Gallas absence

Chelsea have confirmed that William Gallas will not join the club on their pre-season tour of the USA. Gallas was supposed to report back to the training camp in Los Angeles on Monday but failed to turn up.

Chelsea have insisted that the player has acted against their wishes and could be subject to club sanctions at a later date.

“William Gallas will not be joining up with Chelsea FC on the pre-season tour of the United States,” said the club in a statement on Chelsea TV.

“Gallas was due to join the team with the other Chelsea players who participated in the World Cup semi-finals and final. William requested extra time off following the World Cup but was informed he should still report to Los Angeles on the date previously agreed with him. He did not report and further action will now be considered by the club as a consequence.

“Pre-season training and the tour is about building team spirit among our squad and extra leave is only granted for valid football-related reasons.

“Discussions between Chelsea and William about a new contract are already well documented and ongoing. He has one year left on his current contract.”