The Blues issued a statement on the club's official site, insisting that the Russian billionaire is not involved in such a case.

"Roman Abramovich has never offered, proposed or promised any bonuses to the Russian team to beat England," read the statement.

"The financial backing Mr. Abramovich gives to Russian football, via his National Academy of Football foundation, is for the development of the game as a whole and is not focused on specific matches."

Russia are second in Group E with 18 points, one point ahead of England, who lie third before the crucial Wednesday clash at the Wembley Stadium.