Anelka: Will leave Stamford Bridge next month

Blues manager Andre-Villas Boas on Saturday revealed that Anelka and Alex had both submitted transfer requests that had been accepted, and that the duo would be allowed to leave when the January transfer window opens.

And Anelka, who has been starved of opportunities this season owing to the emergence of Daniel Sturridge, has confirmed he is ready to move on.

In a statement on his official website, Anelka wrote: "I've known for a little while where I'll be on January 2.

"The club, which is going through a difficult time, has decided to work with Chelsea's players of the future and, as I am a good professional, I have accepted this."