Chelsea's pre-match huddle could be relocated from the centre circle after controversy during their 1-0 Premier League defeat to Newcastle. Head coach Liam Rosenior confirmed the team is considering moving the ritual before their Champions League last-16 second leg against Paris St-Germain. The huddle, initiated by captain Reece James, has become a point of contention with match officials.

Referee Paul Tierney stood over the ball before kick-off but did not move away as Chelsea players gathered around him. Officials had previously warned Chelsea against gathering near the ball before opponents' kick-off due to confrontation risks. Rosenior said the team 'don't want to antagonise and bring more noise on ourselves' and will decide on a new location before Tuesday's match.

Rosenior described the huddle debate as 'blown out of proportion' and a 'distraction for the media.' He emphasized the ritual's purpose is to show unity and deliver messages from James. Former Premier League assistant referee Darren Cann called the incident 'the strangest thing I've seen in 50 years of watching football,' noting referees control the ball during opponents' kick-off to prevent potential issues.