Mutu gets hearing over sacking

A hearing over Adrian Mutu's shock appeal against his controversial sacking by Chelsea is expected in the next few weeks.

The Premier League have received details of the Romania striker's appeal after he asked them to investigate his case.

Mutu, who was dismissed last month after testing positive for cocaine, will argue occasional drug use is not a serious enough offence to justify Chelsea's contract termination on the grounds of gross misconduct.

The club are perplexed by the move and will fight any challenge to their decision vigorously.

Following the Football Association's decision to ban him from all football for seven months, Mutu seemed to accept his punishment, even agreeing to attend The Priory for rehabilitation, but has changed his attitude because of what he sees as Chelsea's punitive position.

The Stamford Bridge club are determined to recoup some of their losses on a £12million asset and have instructed lawyers to prepare a claim for compensation against Mutu, either from his next club or the player himself through the civil courts.

Chelsea insist they will withhold his registration until a compensation package has been agreed.

Mutu, signed by Chelsea from Parma last year for nearly £16m, has been allowed by world body FIFA to train with his former club Dinamo Bucharest while serving his suspension.