Malouda staying put to fight for his place

The French international winger, who started only 11 Premier League matches last season, has already snubbed overtures from Barcelona, Inter Milan and Juventus over the last three months because he's determined to prove himself and win trophies with Chelsea.

Potentially, he faces direct competition for a place on the left wing from Real Madrid's Brazilian winger - yet Malouda's determination has apparently been redoubled by the threat.

The Frencman's agent, Pierre Frelot, said: "Florent is simply not interested in leaving Chelsea, so I've no idea where the constant rumours of him signing for Newcastle or Roma are coming from.

"Whether Robinho signs or not it will not make any difference to Florent because he's absolutely committed to succeeding at Chelsea.

"I can confirm that he's ready to fight for his place and to persevere simply because he has total faith in his ability to triumph in the face of adversity.

"Personally, I am certain he'll end up winning everyone over just like he has always had to do at each of his previous clubs.

"We reckon that Florent is the only naturally left sided midfielder or winger at the club and he's convinced that if he stays loyal to his dream then he can play a really big part in Chelsea's push to win all four trophies that they enter this season.

"It's true that Barca, Juve and Inter all contacted me during the summer to see whether or not he wanted to quit Chelsea but Florent immediately told me that he didn't want to leave.

"He knows he still has a lot to prove at this club but above all he's convinced that he can become an important footballer for Chelsea." One man who has headed out of the exit door at Stamford Bridge is Andriy Shevchenko, who has finally completed his move back to AC Milan.

The striker left last night with a final expression of gratitude towards Roman Abramovich for the "help and encouragement" that got him through his nightmare spell in west London.

Shevchenko, 31, endured a difficult two years in London following a big-money transfer from Milan, finding the net just nine times in two Premier League campaigns.

But he had nothing but warm praise for the Blues as he ended his disappointing spell.

"I would like to thank Chelsea Football Club - the fans, staff, players and management - for all the support you gave me during my time at the club," he told www.chelseafc.com.

"I would also like to express my gratitude to Roman Abramovich for all his help and encouragement.

"It was unfortunate I suffered a number of injuries during my time here but I always gave my all, whatever the circumstances.

"I really have enjoyed playing in England and have made many friendships that will stay with me forever. I will always look back with fond memories of my time at this really great club. Thank you."

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani expressed his joy at seeing the Ukrainian back among the squad, and insists his return was not solely due to club owner, not to mention Italian Prime Minister, Silvio Berlusconi's close relationship with the player.

"This is a family and we're all happy," he told Gazzetta dello Sport. "It's not true that only Silvio Berlusconi insisted that Andriy return. I've put my weight behind the cause too and I'm happy that in the end we've succeeded in bringing him home."