Desailly sorry for big Ron

The former Manchester United and West Brom manager was livid at the 35-year-old's display in Chelsea's 3-1 UEFA Champions League first leg semi-final defeat to Monaco.

The comments were made after the programme had finished and, as Claudio Ranieri's side had a man advantage, Atkinson felt they should have won and was unhappy at the final score.

Desailly is not angry or upset at the racist comments aimed at him, but feels sorry for him as it has resulted in Atkinson losing his job with the broadcaster and various columns in newspapers.

"I haven't had any contact with Ron Atkinson, but I feel sorry for him," explained Desailly. "You can see that I haven't given any comment before.

"I am not angry or bitter. I have been asked to react, but I have stayed quite cool.

"He had a great image, but he is 65 years old now and he has broken that. I understand that he was motivated by the Chelsea result.

"He was unhappy and he said things in the heat of the moment. It can happen.

"If I kick you, you can say anything. I can understand the reaction. He has made the mistake and it is him who is going to pay for that mistake."

Meanwhile, France defender William Gallas has reportedly gone AWOL from the club after going to the Caribbean at the weekend rather than travelling to Manchester.

The former Marseille stopper was required as cover for Desailly for their game against Manchester United at Old Trafford, but did not travel with the squad.

Gallas reportedly had a bust-up with Ranieri, who looks set to depart in the summer with Jose Mourinho favourite to take control at Stamford Bridge.