Scolari sacked

[Joe]

Didn't expect that!

Luiz Felipe Scolari has been sacked as Chelsea manager, the club announced on Monday afternoon.

A statement on the club's official website revealed the move had been made "to maintain a challenge for the trophies we are still competing for".

Brazilian Scolari was appointed last summer as the replacement for Avram Grant.

The statement on the club's official website added: "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.

"The search for a new manager has already started, and we hope to have someone in place as soon as possible."

Scolari's final game in charge was a goalless draw at home to Hull on Saturday, a result which was met with boos at the final whistle.

Assistant coach Ray Wilkins has been placed in temporary charge.

[Greg]

Chelsea manager must be one of the worst jobs in football.

[zutalor]

i don't mind as long as we don't bring an old manager back. unless it's vialli or hoddle.

[Kendall]

I heard Essien, Lampard and Ballack are doubts for this weekend's internationals as they're yet to find their way out of Jenas & Palacios' pockets.

[Joe]

Oh yeah, it completely slipped my mind to come on here and goad Ben after our crushing victory last weekend.

[zutalor]

don't worry, i've had nothing but grief since.