Chelsea sack Liam Rosenior after five consecutive Premier League defeats

Rosenior signed a five-and-a-half-year deal when he took over the role in January but the Club World Cup winners have lost five consecutive league games without scoring a goal for the first time since 1912.

Chelsea managed just 11 wins in 23 matches across all competitions with Rosenior in charge, with a damaging 3-0 loss away to Brighton the final nail in the coffin.

The club said in a statement: "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."

Chelsea added that Calum McFarlane, previously head coach of the club's under-21 team, will take charge of the first team as interim head coach until the end of the season.

The Blues have an FA Cup semifinal against Leeds United at Wembley on Sunday.

"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," the Chelsea statement added.