Chelsea have parted ways with manager Liam Rosenior after just three months in charge, following a historic run of poor form. The Blues lost five consecutive league games without scoring for the first time since 1912, prompting the club to act. A statement said recent results and performances had fallen below the necessary standards.
First-team coach Calum McFarlane will take over as interim head coach until the end of the season. The 40-year-old briefly led the first team in early January before Rosenior's appointment.
Former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink expressed shock at the decision, saying he expected Rosenior to be given more time despite the pressure. He noted injuries and bad luck in the defeat to Manchester United, but acknowledged that results had been poor. Mario Melchiot said the club needed Champions League football, and that Rosenior's criticism of his players signalled a disconnect. Alan Smith was unsurprised, pointing to Rosenior's public criticism of the team after the Brighton loss and a perceived lack of authority over top players.
The club said it would undertake a process of self-reflection to make the right long-term appointment. Early names linked to the job include former players Felipe Luis and Cesc Fabregas, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner, and former Barcelona boss Xavi.
