Chelsea have moved quickly to diffuse a row between Ramires and the Brazilian Football Confederation.

The Blues insist a groin injury was the reason he was unavailable for friendlies against Russia and Italy in March, as they look to defuse a situation which could result in Ramires missing out on the 2014 World Cup.

He has not been selected for the Selecao since and the drama was exacerbated with the reported claim that Ramires' wife labelled the Brazilian national team set up 'a mafia'.

President Jose Maria Marin had explained: "The national team's doors are open to all Brazilian players as long as they are fully committed since when they get called up. The attitude on and off the pitch is the key.

"There was a player that gave priority to having dinner instead. I won't name him, but his wife even said the national team is a mafia because he was not called up again."

But a Chelsea spokesman told the Daily Mail: "Contrary to media reports, Chelsea Football Club can confirm that Ramires was not available to play for Brazil in friendly matches against Russia and Italy in March of this year due to injury.

"The left adductor muscle injury was confirmed following an MRI scan and he underwent treatment at Chelsea FC's medical department from March 17 to March 28.

"Throughout this time information was relayed to the Brazilian national team doctor in the usual way and the treatment was agreed between the club and national team.

"However, Chelsea FC would like to apologise that it was not made clear when Ramires would be able to report back to the national squad."