However, the French international tonight spoke out to maintain that he had been given permission to miss the game as he was injured.

Gallas told Chelsea TV: “Someone phoned to ask whether I was in the Caribbean and I said ‘no, why?’ I was asked whether I had a big problem with Ranieri and I said ‘no’.

“I talked with him before the Manchester game and told him that I couldn’t play as I had a problem with my hamstring. He said ‘okay’ and that’s it.”

The French international defender believes Chelsea have had a “great season” despite not having won a trophy, with the team having reached second place in the Barclaycard Premiership and the Champions League semi-finals.

“Last year, we finished fourth and this time we finished second. I know a lot of people were very disappointed about the Champions League semi-final against Monaco but we gave everything in this game,” he said.

“Next year, I think we can go to the final. Everyone wants to do that as it will be a good challenge.”

Gallas also believes he could still be fit for the final game of the season, at home to Leeds on Saturday.

He added: “I hope so. I have been running with [fitness coach] Roberto Sassi. I was happy as I didn’t feel anything in my hamstring. Maybe I will touch the ball now and then we will see.”