By Ade O`Connor
July 20 2003

Damien Duff has met with Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri and his agent has commented that the meeting went well. It is now up to the Republic of Ireland international to think about his future at either Stamford Bridge or Ewood Park, as no Manchester United bid has come in as of yet. Duff had the release clause in his contract activated when Chelsea, with new backing from billionaire Roman Abramovic, bid £17m for the winger come striker.

Blackburn Rovers have accepted the offer and it is now up to Damien Duff if he wishes to join the soon to be superstar ranks at Stamford Bridge. Abramovic has also tabled bids for some of the top stars in World football, in an attempt to make Chelsea European champions.

Much has been made of the possibility of Duff moving to Manchester United, especially after Alex Ferguson lost out to Barcelona in the fight for Brazilian Ronaldinho. However, no approach has been made and the media speculation appears to be just talk.

Though Souness, manager of Blackburn Rovers, has not given up hope of retaining the services of Damien Duff for next season. Blackburn still have enough funds in the back account after the late Jack Walker pumped his investments into the club, and saw them turn into Premiership winners.

The final choice lies in the hands of Damien Duff.