Chelsea have sacked Liam Rosenior as head coach following defeat to Brighton, with a familiar face being named in charge until the end of the season
Liam Rosenior
Liam Rosenior has been sacked and his Chelsea replacement confirmed(Image: Chris Lee - Chelsea FC, Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
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Calum McFarlane will take the reins at Chelsea until the end of the season while the club search for a new head coach. McFarlane steps into the caretaker role for the second time this campaign following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior.
The Blues intend to 'self-reflect' before making a permanent appointment after a dismal conclusion to Rosenior's time at the helm. It is understood that the club are not currently in active discussions with any potential replacement.
The former Strasbourg manager succeeded Enzo Maresca in January but presided over a dreadful run of five consecutive defeats without scoring before being shown the door. The loss to Brighton appeared to be the final nail in the coffin, as Rosenior publicly questioned his players' commitment in the aftermath.
In his previous two matches at the helm, McFarlane failed to secure a victory, picking up just a single draw. He steered the Blues to a stalemate against Manchester City before suffering defeat at the hands of local rivals Fulham.
The club set out their intentions in their official statement confirming Rosenior's departure. "On behalf of everyone at Chelsea FC, we would like to place on record our gratitude to Liam and his staff for all their efforts during their time with the club," a statement read.
"Liam has always conducted himself with the highest integrity and professionalism following his appointment midway through the season. This has not been a decision the club has taken lightly, however recent results and performances have fallen below the necessary standards with still so much more to play for this season.
"Everyone at Chelsea FC wishes Liam every success in the future. Calum McFarlane will take charge of the team as interim head coach until the end of the season with support from existing club backroom staff, as we strive to achieve European qualification and progress in the FA Cup.
"As the club works to bring stability to the head coach position, we will undertake a process of self-reflection to make the right long-term appointment."
Liam Rosenior
Liam Rosenior was sacked by Chelsea on Wednesday(Image: Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
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Former under-21s boss McFarlane spoke candidly about his position ahead of the clash with Manchester City in January. "It's always awkward when an interim comes in and it's more for them than it is for us," he said.
"It's about them producing the level of performance that they've done before against top sides. We've had some top results this year and we know what this side is capable of.
"My message to them is bringing the best version of themselves and being all in it together and believing that we can get the next couple of days right and hopefully put in a good performance on Sunday."
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