The French defender left Chelsea for Arsenal in August 2006 amid claims that he had threatened to score an own goal if his contract demands were not met by the Blues.

Gallas has rejected those accusations and insists he always gave his all during his five years with the west London club.

But, on his return to Stamford Bridge on Sunday, he was roundly jeered by Chelsea fans during Arsenal's 2-1 defeat.

The Gunners captain shrugged off the criticism and believes he was only booed because the supporters are not aware of the facts behind his exit.

"I think the fans boo me because they did not know the truth about why I left Chelsea," Gallas told Sky Sports.

"Maybe I have to say the truth and maybe they will respect me.

"It's true I spent five years there and I gave the maximum. What the Chelsea club said about me, it was not true."

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba also feels that Gallas deserves respect for his achievements during his time with the club.

Drogba said: "William Gallas gave a lot to Chelsea and the minimum the fans can give him is a little bit more respect because he gave us two titles and I wish him all the best."