We would like to take this opportunity to apologise again to survivors from this club for the unacceptable abuse they suffered from someone who was entrusted with their care. It is important that the game, and society as a whole, reflects on the Review’s findings and embraces what is needed to make sure these terrible crimes can never happen again.

At Chelsea, we have always recognised our responsibility towards survivors and adopt a victim-first approach; that is why we commissioned an independent review into non-recent child sexual abuse, which was led by Charles Geekie QC and published in August 2019. We also have a dedicated Player Support Service which provides holistic support when it is needed, and would encourage survivors to reach out to this service.

We will continue to partner with the FA, Premier League, PFA and other organisations to adopt the recommendations of the Sheldon Review. We hope this serves as an important step in the effort to ensure a safer future for our sport.