Ken’s apparent dismissive comments were published the day after Ian Hutchinson, one of the heroes and major contributors in both 1970 FA Cup Finals, died.
Osgood, who was recently relinquished from his post as a Chelsea matchday host was genuinely hurt by the criticism.
Ken, never one to shy away from a “little disagreement” or adverse publicity/criticism (and why should he) used his programme notes from Saturdays game against West Ham to respond to the recent, what he called, “incoherent rantings” concerning “that” team from 1970 and “the king of the bridge” Peter Osgood.
Ken’s response is as follows:
WISE UP OSSIE!
The incoherent rantings of Steve Howard are to be expected, unfortunately, and treated with the contempt they deserve. What has he achieved in his own right other than to make a good living out of slagging off the efforts of others. I assume his family moto is 'I've made up my mind - don't confuse me with facts". Rob Shepherd, however, is a different kettle of fish. I was disappointed that he made no effort to check his facts before writing his article relying instead on what was printed elsewhere. I am of course referring to the furore which has arisen in the Sun following a private lunch I had with one of their journalists. The subject, of course, was Peter Osgood who asked plaintively "Why does he (me) hate us (the 70's team) so much?".
Let us examine the facts. I am indebted to the Standard's objective article detailing the stars of that era. Of the 13 players named, two, sadly, are dead and two live in the USA. That leaves nine. Since I became Chairman, Peter Bonetti was appointed goalkeeping coach, David Webb was our manager in 1993. John Hollins was first player coach and then Manager from 1983-88. Alan Hudson was brought back at Osgood's request as a matchday host, but he had problems in the players tunnel area and had to leave. Chopper Harris is still at the Chelsea home games and watches from the Directors Box.
Which leaves Peter Osgood himself. I first saw him before I met him. In 1983 when CFC was fighting to avoid relegation from the old second division, Peter was on TV. Filmed in his bar, glass in hand; he opined that CK was finished and he could see nothing to stop them dropping through the divisions. Not much support there in our then hour of need. From time to time over the years he has criticised the club in public but the issues have usually been resolved in private. However his worse transgression was his foulmouthed abuse in public to one of our supporters for not allotting him shares when the fan's company went public, thereby missing out on making some money. 
This summer the corporate sales department decided they wished to change their matchday host and replace Osgood. This incensed him and he threatened to go to the press with his grievance, which he did. Again, hardly the act of a self professed Chelsea fan. No Peter, having given six of the 70s team positions at the Club I don't hate them. I just feel sorry for you and the fact that you seem to think that the world owes you a living on the back of your achievements 30 years ago. We never have any problems with the ex players of the 80s and 90s - who achieved more without making any fuss or fanfare as did the 1955 Championship team. Instead of harbouring imaginary grievances perhaps you should get on with your life. You never did do those promised Golf days to help CPO did you?
stevefurlong@chelsea-mad.co.uk
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