UEFA start Chelsea probe

UEFA have begun disciplinary proceedings against Chelsea after their players were late for the second half of last week's Champions League defeat at Barcelona and coach Jose Mourinho snubbed the post-match news conference.

A UEFA spokesman said yesterday the Premier League leaders had until March 14 to send a written statement in their defence, before UEFA's Control and Disciplinary body meets on March 24 to examine the case.

Chelsea, who had striker Didier Drogba red-carded at the Nou Camp, lost the knockout round first leg 2-1.

There was controversy soon after the final whistle.

Mourinho and Barcelona manager Frank Rijkaard were involved in a row over an alleged incident in the players' tunnel at half-time, and the Chelsea boss refused to speak to the media after the match.