Chelsea freezes ticket prices amid fan discontent

Chelsea fans display a banner as they protest against Rafa Benitez on Saturday.

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LONDON (AP) -- Chelsea has announced a prize freeze on all tickets for next season amid fan discontent at Stamford Bridge.

Supporters have been loudly protesting at matches since Champions League-wining manager Roberto Di Matteo was fired and the unpopular Rafa Benitez was hired in November until the end of the season.

Chief executive Ron Gourlay says the prize freeze is because "economic conditions remain tough for many people and the club would like to thank our supporters for the consistently very good attendances.''

Previous prize freezes covered the period between 2006 and 2010. Next season's tickets will be the same as 2011-12 levels, covering season tickets, individual match tickets and hospitality lounges.

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