Chelsea Sack Scolari

9 months ago 10th Feb 10:48

Chelsea have sacked manager Luiz Felipe Scolari following their goalless draw to Hull City on Saturday saw them slip down to fourth in the Premiership. The Blues are still in the Champions League and FA Cup.

Scolari, who took the job in June 2008 was Chelsea's third boss in a year. He signed a three year deal so could be in line for a hefty compensation pay out. Ray Wilkins will take control until a successor is found.

The Brazilian's spokesman Acaz Felleger, said it was Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich who ran out of patience. Felleger told Lance newspaper's website: "It seems that Abramovich made the decision. Scolari was not in a comfortable situation despite having the support of the squad and Peter Kenyon."

"The Chelsea squad are old. Felipe tried to rejuvenate it, but unsuccessfully. He asked (the board) to sign Deco and Robinho, but they only brought Deco."

Scolari said he would give his side of the story soon. He said: "I am thankful for the opportunity to have worked for Chelsea and in English football. It was a very valuable experience. I am sorry that my time with everyone could not last longer. I wish Chelsea luck in the three competitions they are participating in.

"I want to take the opportunity to inform that I will keep living in London. I will respond to the media soon."

Chelsea's official statement said: "Felipe has brought many positives to the club since he joined and we all feel a sense of sadness that our relationship has ended so soon. Unfortunately the results and performances of the team appeared to be deteriorating at a key time in the season.

"In order to maintain a challenge for the trophies we are still competing for we felt the only option was to make the change now.

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson expressed his sympathy for Scolari. He told MUTV: "It is a sign of the times. There is absolutely no patience in the world now. There was great expectation at Chelsea that they were going to do well this year - and it is only this last month they have had a bad spell. The judgment really is only on the last month."

During Scolari's 36 games in charge at Stamford Bridge in 20 were won, five lost and 11 drawn.

Former Chelsea players Gianfranco Zola and Roberto Di Matteo have been linked to the job as well as Russia boss Guus Hiddink and former Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard.