Leeds United's Wembley opponents Chelsea name new man in charge - after sacking ex-Hull City chief Liam Rosenior
LEEDS United’s FA Cup semi-final opponents Chelsea have sacked Liam Rosenior – just four days before Sunday’s showpiece at Wembley.
The former Hull City chief has paid the price following a run of five consecutive Premier League defeats in which the team failed to score.
Rosenior signed a six-and-a-half-year deal in January but lasted just 106 days at Stamford Bridge.
His reign started brightly but the team have plummeted down the table and are almost certain to miss out on qualification for the Champions League.
They were beaten comfortably 3-0 by Brighton at the Amex Stadium on Tuesday as they suffered a fifth straight league loss without scoring for the first time since 1912.
Calum McFarlane will take charge until the end of the campaign, starting on Sunday.
A club statement read: " Chelsea Football Club has today parted company with head coach Liam Rosenior .
"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."