Sunderland boss Roy Keane has rubbished reports he axed Pascal Chimbonda in midweek for poor time-keeping.

"Since I've been at the club, every time I've made changes, there seem to be stories around Sunderland it's for disciplinary problems," he stated.

"Last year, I left three players out and it was alleged they were at a nightclub yet they were in the hotel with us. It's a load of nonsense.

"I've got a squad to pick from and Pascal is in the squad for the game against Chelsea. I've absolutely no problems with Pascal - he's a top, top player and, again, it's just unfortunate that every time I leave a player out, there's some sort of rumour the players are up to no good.

"It's not right. It's gone on with other players at the club and it's just crazy.

"People just are not happy understanding I'm using my squad of players and there will be changes again tomorrow so, when you see me next week, you can ask if those players who are left out were late, or in nightclubs or strip-joints or whatever.

"You can ask me that next week."