STRIKER Andriy Shevchenko has denied accusations he has a special relationship with Chelsea's billionaire Russia owner, Roman Abramovich, which is destabilising the English Premier League champion.

"Those rumours are all lies," the Ukrainian told today's (AEDT) edition of The Times. "A lot of things have been said which aren't true.

"There are things which are written about my relationship with Roman Abramovich which have been over-exaggerated. My relationship with him is the same as every other player.

"We might have a quick word with each other but that is natural as we both speak Russian. Maybe I shouldn't speak Russian."

Shevchenko has scored only five goals this season and manager Jose Mourinho has made veiled references to a lack of effort.

British newspapers have reported that Abramovich's backing for the out-of-form striker is one of several issues which have created a rift with Mourinho, and might persuade the Portugal boss to leave at the end of the season.

Schevchenko said he has no intention of leaving the west London club.

"I have been attacked from all sides but I intend to carry on," he said. "I will grit my teeth. I am not a quitter. I just want to be kept out of the politics."

He also said he accepted Mourinho's decision to leave him on the substitutes' bench for recent matches.

"He's the coach," said Shevchenko. "If he decides I am not capable I just have to work harder. It doesn't matter what I think."