QUESTIONS surround whether away fans will be allowed to attend Middlesbrough’s FA Cup match against Chelsea.

Boro are due to play the club world champions in the quarter finals of the competition at the Riverside on Saturday, March 19.

While a postponement of the fixture has not been discussed the match could be played without travelling fans.

The game will be televised live on BBC One, as was the case with the extra-time win over Tottenham in the previous round.

Chelsea were due to open ticket sales for the cup tie on Thursday but pulled it on Thursday morning.

Read more: Middlesbrough announce details of Chelsea FA Cup game

It comes after the UK Government announced a sanctions strike on seven Russian oligarchs, including Chelsea football club owner Roman Abramovich.

Reports have suggested that non-season ticket holders will not be permitted to purchase tickets for games, including away fans.

The club and Mr Abramovich are banned from profiting from club merchandise sales, meaning the west London outfit is likely to be forced to shutter its club shop.

A statement from Chelsea FC on Thursday said: “Tickets for the Middlesbrough away FA Cup match will not go on sale today as planned.

“Further updates will follow in due course.”

Middlesbrough FC were contacted for comment.

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