LONDON, Sept 12 - Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich
has denied media reports he offered bonuses to Russia's players
to defeat England in their Euro 2008 qualifier at Wembley later
on Wednesday.
In a statement issued on the club's official Web site
(www.chelseafc.com), the Londoners said Abramovich "has never
offered, proposed or promised any bonuses to the Russian team to
beat England".
Russia are second in Group E qualifying, with 18 points from
eight games.
England occupy third place on 17 points, three behind
leaders Croatia.