It was suggested in the English press on Friday that Kenyon had sanctioned the sale of France defender William Gallas to Arsenal without Mourinho's agreement.

Gallas had made it clear he wanted to leave Stamford Bridge because he was unhappy at being played out of position by Mourinho, who had responded by banishing the player to the reserves.

On Thursday Gallas was sent to Arsenal along with five million pounds in exchange for England defender Ashley Cole.

That was believed to have led to an argument between Mourinho and Kenyon but the west London club are furious with those rumours and are said to be considering taking legal action.

Chelsea insist Mourinho's relationship with Kenyon is strong and the pair were in constant contact throughout Thursday as efforts to bring Cole to Chelsea gathered pace.