Curbs warning to Chelsea

Alan Curbishley today warned Chelsea that Charlton are prepared to "get messy" to keep Scott Parker.

The England international has clearly been unsettled by Chelsea's offer and the Charlton manager has dropped him from tomorrow's match at Everton after he was given two days off training because "he's not in the right frame of mind".

Chelsea are believed to have made two bids for the 23-year-old midfield star of £6million and £8m but Curbishley said: "This could get messy. Any club outside the top four or five is vulnerable if the big clubs come calling, but you don't have to do it.

"Chelsea didn't offer any player, they made a cash offer that was unacceptable. We've not put a price on Scott's head and have just said 'go away'. Even £15 million would not be enough for him.

"I told him not to come in because he's not in the right frame of mind. I will not have him back unless he improves his attitude.

"He's been unsettled by the transfer talk. I think Scott is disappointed by our decision. I understand everyone's frustration but how about the 24,000 Charlton season ticket holders and the manager who has been here for 10 years?"

Charlton are enjoying their best Premiership season and are in fourth place, one spot behind Chelsea. Parker has been their best player and has put himself in the reckoning for Euro 2004.