Chelsea have decided against signing Portugal midfielder Maniche on a permanent basis.

The 28-year-old joined the Blues on loan from Dynamo Moscow in January, but struggled to make an impact at Stamford Bridge and started just three Premiership matches.

Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon told the club's official website: "The signing was about cover. Generally we don't want to bring players in during January because it is difficult for them to integrate.

"But we had players going off to the African Cup of Nations and the manager felt we needed more cover, particularly with the potential of Michael Essien going away.

"He (Maniche) certainly contributed to the team while he was here. We make a big thank you for that and wish him all the best with his future.

"It is never easy for anybody coming into a team halfway through the year and he had some getting fit to do.

"He was eager to prove his worth and what he contributed to the squad is not always just about what you do on the pitch."

The move did prove to be of some use to Maniche as it enabled him to stay in Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari's thoughts and clinch a place in the World Cup squad.