• Premier League

Chelsea defend Cole amid tunnel row

ESPN staff
December 14, 2011
Frank Lampard's penalty set Chelsea on their way to three points © Getty Images
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Chelsea have dismissed reports which suggested Ashley Cole sparked a clash in the Stamford Bridge tunnel following their 2-1 win over Manchester City on Monday.

Andre Villas-Boas' Chelsea came from behind to claim victory courtesy of a Frank Lampard penalty. The atmosphere in the tunnel was described as boisterous, while City boss Roberto Mancini hinted Cole may have said something after the game.

Newspapers on Wednesday ran a number of stories, ranging from Cole saying 'Thursday nights, Channel Five' in reference to City's drop into the Europe League, to claims he launched an 'X-rated' rant.

Chelsea have moved to calm the furore by issuing a statement defending the England international left back.

"Contrary to reports, Ashley Cole did not say anything to the opposition in the tunnel after Monday's game," read a statement on Chelsea's official website. "Ashley has huge respect for the players and staff at Manchester City, many of whom he knows personally and calls friends."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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