Crespo plays down Messi row

Chelsea star Hernan Crespo has cooled the row with Barcelona's Lionel Messi

Blues boss Jose Mourinho was unhappy with the Argentine ace after accusing him of play-acting to get Asier del Horno sent off during the first leg meeting between the sides last month.

Crespo insists the players have no problem with Messi and admitted that the Barcelona starlet came in for some rough treatment at Stamford Bridge.

"We weren't annoyed with him when Del Horno was sent off. It is the stuff of football and often happens," Crespo told the Sun.

"What is undeniable is I saw Lionel's legs in Switzerland and the bruises were still there.

"Messi was never afraid despite his youth and small physique. That is worthy of respect. I thought he was very courageous.

"What hurt most was suffering our first home defeat in about 50 games since the arrival of Jose Mourinho."

Meanwhile, Joe Cole has revealed he is happy to sign a new deal at Stamford Bridge.

The 24-year-old was close to signing a contract extension last summer only for the deal to be held up.

Cole, who has 18 months to run on his current contract, has been in fine form this season and he sees no reason why he would consider leaving West London.

"I was going to sign it in the summer but it was held up because the Michael Essien deal was taking so long," said Cole.

"We all agreed I would concentrate on my football rather than have contract talks carrying over into the season.

"I'm sure we'll sit round the table and sort something out. My mind is clear at the moment. There's not a problem. If Chelsea want me, it will be done.

"I'm playing for Chelsea and there would be no reason for a player to leave here. I certainly don't want to.

"We will sit down in the summer and then it will be done. There's no doubt in my mind. I'm settled here, I've moved into a new house."