Ukraine great Andriy Shvechenko admits he failed as a Chelsea player.

Shevchenko joined Chelsea from AC Milan late in his career in 2006.

“I would like people to understand my difficulties were due to physical issues," he wrote in his new book, 'My Life. My Football'.

“The fans were great with me but sadly I never managed to show them my best. I was afraid I was going to have to retire from football.

“I felt bad for the people and the club. I'd have given the world to return the affection they were showing me. Instead, I was broken."

“I did my best and gave my all: that was just my way. Still, I knew my motor wasn't running as it ought to.

“The newspapers criticised me heavily but only I knew the real problem: that accursed fatigue that had never lifted."