Thursday 22 November 2012 18:32, UK
Chelsea have accepted the FA's decision to clear referee Mark Clattenburg of an alleged racist comment against their midfielder John Obi Mikel.
The statement continued: "Chelsea FC cooperated fully with the FA and provided 11 witness statements covering all events during and after the Premier League game on October 28. "Chelsea FC has a duty of care, as do all employers, to act responsibly when such allegations are reported by employees. "We did not take the decision to lodge a formal complaint with the FA lightly and followed the correct processes and protocols throughout. "The club carried out a thorough investigation, led by outside legal counsel, using all information available to us. As the FA makes clear, it is not uncommon for investigations to lead to no disciplinary charge being brought. "All those directly involved have been subjected to scrutiny over the last weeks. Chelsea FC now hopes that all concerned can continue to carry out their duties without prejudice. "We are committed to working alongside all referees and their assistants to ensure games are conducted in the right spirit and that all our players and staff accept and observe the match officials' authority and decisions."