Zhirkov unable to obtain Chelsea work permit

22.07.09 | Ian Ferris

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti cannot select new signing Yuri Zhirkov in pre-season because the Russia international has yet to be granted a work permit.

Ancelotti told Chelsea's official website: "For Yuri Zhirkov is it not possible to put him in because we have to wait for his work permit.

"He is working with the team on tour and is a very good player, but has a little problem with the language."