Makelele: I joined Chelsea for the cash

Chelsea midfielder Claude Makelele has admitted he quit Real Madrid for the money.

Makelele trebled his wages by joining Chelsea in the summer and he told The Sun, "I don't regret a thing. I took the decision for the good of my financial future and my health."

"I'm not an egotist but a moment came when I had to be - because other people were only thinking of themselves and nothing more."

"It was a difficult decision because Madrid gave me so much on many different levels. But there were important reasons that made me leave."

He added, "It's dangerous when a club pays so much for you because, with this amount, you are not given much time to demonstrate your game."

"But the truth is, I have adapted very quickly. I have got my head round it and am giving my all. I'm very professional."