Makelele's deal with Grant

Claude Makelele has admitted to striking a deal with Chelsea manager Avram Grant with regards to which games he will play this season. The Frenchman has been a regular up until this season, only featuring a few times for Chelsea.

The 34-year-old has admitted making a deal with Grant aimed at maintaining his fitness levels, saying: "I have an agreement with my club coach. He knows how I manage my games and we have a well stocked squad. He needs me in our very important matches, but he rotates the squad for the easier fixtures. That suits me fine. I can have a rest and it is perfect for me."

Makelele had earlier stated he was worried about his future in the French international setup, even considering international retirement.

This season, however, Makelele has only started four games for the Stamford Bridge side.