Chelsea technical advisor Petr Cech has become a central figure in the midst of Roman Abramovich being sanctioned by the UK government and the attempted sale of the club.
Abramovich was sanctioned two weeks ago due to what was described as a 'decades-long' relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has been leading an invasion of Ukraine. The Chelsea owner has always denied any connection to Putin.
Nevertheless, the Oligarch had his assets frozen, preventing the Blues from negotiating new contracts or transfers and even selling matchday tickets, meaning only 600 fans could travel to Middlesbrough for their FA Cup quarter-final on Saturday. A special license has been granted to allow the payment of wages and matches to be played.
READ MORE: John Terry breaks silence on Chelsea offer amid five confirmed Raine takeover bids being made
Despite the drama unfolding behind the scenes, Chelsea were still able to seal their place in the semi-finals of the FA Cup, beating Chris Wilder's side 2-0. Speaking to the BBC after full-time, Thomas Tuchel said: "I’m very happy and very impressed. We accepted the situation because we did not cause it.
"Nothing we can do will change the situation and it is not in our hands. What is in our hands is to stay focused and to set an example because I think, many people at Chelsea and who work at Chelsea who are not in the spotlight are more concerned than us and more worried about the situation about what is going on and what will happen.
"For them, it’s also important that we take the responsibility and give the right spirit and attitude to set and this is very, very good. Last but not least, we also need to show it because of our talent, it’s a responsibility that if you have this talent, and if you show you’re still gifted to play football as a profession, then you do what you do and push yourself to the limit. This is what we do and the culture at the club helps to support everybody."
While only a smattering of away fans were allowed into the ground, some representation from the hierarchy were allowed access to the Riverside, as Cech was filmed in the stands watching his former side in action. The club legend has been working as a technical and performance advisor more recently but has been tasked with communicating the latest events from the Abramovich saga to Tuchel and the players.
On Saturday, he had reason to smile as Chelsea cruised to victory and Cech was filmed standing and applauding after the final whistle
