Chelsea fans told to show they care

Chelsea managing director Colin Hutchinson yesterday begged supporters to end the apathy that damaged the club's UEFA Cup chances last season.

Claudio Ranieri marks his first anniversary as Chelsea manager against Levski Sofia in the UEFA Cup tomorrow. A year ago, the day before he officially took over, Ranieri sat in the directors' box at a half- empty Stamford Bridge for the 1-0 win over St Gallen.

Chelsea were knocked out after a 2-0 defeat in Switzerland a fortnight later and Hutchinson is worried another poor turn- out could sabotage hopes again.

Hutchinson, who has reduced admission prices, said: 'Small, quiet crowds only help the opposition. My message to the fans is that support for the team and a noisy atmosphere will be important.

'We will need to be fully focused and that goes for the fans, too. Often atmosphere and intimidation are lacking in the early rounds.'