Chelsea have sacked Liam Rosenior following their 3-0 defeat to Brighton. The 41-year-old replaced Enzo Maresca back in January but leaves the club after less than four months in charge having overseen just 23 games.
The Blues set an unwanted record in Rosenior’s final match in charge having lost five Premier League games in a row without scoring for the first time since 1912. Chelsea had secured victory in just one of their last eight games in all competitions, though Rosenior had led the club to 10 wins during his first 15 games at the helm.
An emergency meeting was held to decide how the Blues should move forward. The manner of the loss to Brighton appears to have been a step too far.
Calum McFarlane will take charge of the Blues on an interim basis with just a matter of days until the FA Cup semi-final against Leeds United. The Chelsea coach has experience in the first team environment as he took on the same role following Maresca’s departure earlier this year.
A club statement confirming his departure read: “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. 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.”
Before his exit, there appeared to be disconnect between Rosenior and his players. The former Strasbourg boss offered a scathing assessment of his side’s outing against Brighton and suggested not all of his squar were putting in the required effort.
During some of his final words as Chelsea head coach, Rosenior said: “In the basics, in the pride that you should have in wearing the shirt, that was unacceptable. I’ve defended the players and I am accountable. I’ve always said that.
“After tonight, I think the players as well need to have a look in the mirror for what they put in. You can talk about tactics, tactics come after the basics. Having more courage to play, winning duels, winning headers, tackles, conceding terrible goals. That was an unacceptable performance tonight.”