CHRIS Sutton was today hoping Chelsea will turn a blind eye to the alleged obscene gesture made after the equaliser by Ashley Ward at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.

The FA have already investigated the incident but are powerless to act unless an official complaint is made. A spokesman said: "There is an official route of complaint available to Chelsea.

"If that happens, or there is another complaint, we have the power to take action."

Sutton had a running feud with French defender Frank Leboeuf during the game and made some strong remarks about the World Cup star's ego after a bad-tempered match.

And, if it is proved that a gesture was directed at Leboeuf, the FA's remarks could be seen as an open invitation for the Chelsea player to make a complaint.

Rovers are also considering an appeal against the sending off of Marlon Broomes in the same game. He was dismissed after a bust-up with Chelsea boss Gianluca Vialli.

Chief executive John Williams said today: "We have alerted the FA that when we have had the chance to study the video and referee's report, which has not arrived yet, we might wish to appeal."

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