England are now seven wins from seven in Group Six, so a win over Croatia in September will see Capello’s men heading to the World Cup 2010 in South Africa.

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has been suspended from European competition for six matches following his outburst against Barcelona in last season’s Champions League semi-final clash.

The last two games in the ban will be deferred for a probationary period of two years, dependent on the player’s future behaviour.

Uefa have taken action against the Ivorian following his furious reaction to the Blues’ exit to Barcelona on 6th May.

Drogba confronted match referee Tom Henning Ovrebo at the end of the second leg of that contest, accusing the Norwegian official of bias towards the Spanish outfit.

His ban will apply to the next four Uefa club competition events for which Chelsea are eligible.

Meanwhile, Drogba’s Stamford Bridge team-mate Jose Bosingwa has also been suspended for four matches for offences in the same game – the last of which has been deferred for two years.

Chelsea have been fined €100,00 for improper conduct of their players and the throwing of missiles by their supporters.

Rob Faulkner, Uefa’s head of communications, told Radio 5 Live: “The actions of the players were certainly not of a sporting nature.

“Everything has been taken into account. The club will be informed officially in writing and then they have three days in which to consider whether to appeal or not.

“We have to set certain standards. We do have a ‘Respect’ campaign and the Uefa president (Michel Platini) is instrumental behind that.

“The players are key to that, in setting a good example both on and off the pitch. The club obviously has a responsibility for the way their players behave as well.

“All in all, that’s the reasoning for the decision.”

Drogba had stated that he would accept any punishment given to him by Uefa over his actions.

“My behaviour was not what Uefa and everyone wants to see in a football stadium,” Drogba said ahead of the governing body’s verdict.

“It’s not easy but I think that whatever I did and the decision they take I will accept it.
“I will do my suspension and, after that, I will come back stronger.”

England are now seven wins from seven in Group Six, so a win over Croatia in September will see Capello’s men heading to the World Cup 2010 in South Africa.

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