Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas steamed into Nicolas Anelka after defeat at QPR, it has been revealed. The Daily Mail says Villas-Boas is running out of patience with Anelka and gave the Frenchman both barrels after Sunday's 1-0 defeat by west London rivals Queens Park Rangers.

The news casts more doubt on the striker's long-term future at Stamford Bridge, with the club not even starting talks over a new contract despite the fact that Anelka could leave for nothing in the summer.

Anelka missed a glorious headed chance in the closing stages of Sunday's game at Loftus Road with his side down to nine men and chasing the game.

Villas-Boas, who was already seething at referee Chris Foy's display, ripped into Anelka in the Chelsea dressing room.

But the Portuguese manager's tirade does not appear to have had the desired effect, as Anelka then went on to miss a penalty in Wednesday night's extra-time win over Everton in the Carling Cup.