Just the Double to fight for now ...

Last updated : 08 March 2006 By Paul Lagan
Okay, we all saw the game, and there will be debates about the tactics and individual performances for many matches to come.
The truth is we are out of the Champions League and only have the league and FA Cup double to aim for this season.

The loss of kudos that goes with participation in Europes premier competition will be sending shivers down the spine of Kenyon and his cronies.

Roman Abramovich will be fuming - he will be demanding a report into match preparation, tactics and performance.
He will also be asking questions of his Director of Communications who is responsible for the club's insane public relations stance.

The development of Chelsea FC into a global power takes on many strands.
Success on the pitch is demanded in the domestic arena, whereas in Europe it is hoped for.
Kenyon will assess our exit and the impact it will have on the club's business model.

It's fair to assume that this will be the last season Abramowich will tolerate not winning the Champions League.

Questions will be asked about why the club is not bringing in the strikers needed to unlock resolute but not invincible defences.

Kenyon, claiming that the club won't be held to ransom over transfer deals is in the past now.
He must find a way to tempt these players to Chelsea otherwise Abramowich will find someone who will.

Come to think of it, every cloud does indeed have a silver lining....