Chelsea Release Statement on Gary Johnson Child Sex Abuse Allegations

Chelsea Football Club have released a statement regarding the sexual abuse of former player Gary Johnson and have “apologised profusely” for his suffering. 

Johnson was sexually assaulted by chief scout Eddie Heath during his time at Stamford Bridge in the 1970s and was paid £50,000 not to go public with his ordeal.

Chelsea said in a statement on the club website that they have recognised their wrongdoing and will strive to deal with similar circumstances in a more appropriate manner:

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Although this abuse took place many decades ago, the last week has also highlighted decisions made more recently in relation to the case of our former player Gary Johnson. We are therefore asking the external law firm to review the way we handled Mr Johnson’s case and make recommendations as to how we can improve our procedures in future. We are determined to learn from any mistakes that were made.

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Johnson is one of several former professional footballers to have come forward recently to disclose sexual abuse suffered during time at club academies, and Chelsea said they were shocked by such developments:

"Everyone at Chelsea Football Club has been profoundly shocked by news of historical child sex abuse across British football and our heart goes out to all the victims."

The fact that Johnson was paid for his silence has caused even more shock waves across the professional game, and Chelsea issued an apology for the part they played in the case:

“It is clear that Gary Johnson suffered unacceptably while in our employment in the 1970s for which the club apologises profusely.”

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Chelsea's statement added that they are a “different club” now and strive to ensure the safety of all of their young employees:

“Chelsea today is a very different club than it was in the 1970s. We are fully committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children and young people who are in our care or attending our premises. Their welfare is of paramount importance.”

Victims of sexual abuse in professional football are continuing to come forward off the back of recent developments, and the PFA has revealed that there are 17 new cases, per Sky News.

Sky News also reported that the PFA is keen to contact 27 more potential victims.