Former official Clive Wilkes has revealed there is a growing concern among Premier League referees about taking charge of Chelsea matches.
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Police and the Football Association have launched formal investigations into the Blues' allegations that referee Mark Clattenburg racially abused midfielder John Obi Mikel.
Clattenburg has since denied the claims, welcoming a full inquiry, with Wilkes throwing his support behind the 37-year-old.
And in startling revelations made to The Sun, he revealed that referees have been discussing refusing to officiate Chelsea matches.
Wilkes said: "I keep in touch with a lot of the lads and there is such a strength of feeling about what is happening to Mark.
"I know a few referees who are even talking about boycotting Chelsea games because of all this. Remember, it's not the first time Chelsea have targeted a referee - there's been Anders Frisk and Graham Poll.
"And some refs are now saying enough is enough. It's no exaggeration to say the refs in this country have never felt lower.
"They are so disillusioned. They feel vulnerable, feel that they are being left isolated - that they are getting no backing, no support.
"They want to speak out themselves but are too frightened, they fear they will be sacked if they go public with their grievances.
"There have even been murmurings about strike action but that's very much the last resort.
"They'd much prefer to get around the table with the FA, PFA, the clubs and players to sort this out as quickly as possible."
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