Benitez the early favourite for Chelsea

Roman Abramovich has wielded the axe at Chelsea, with Roberto Di Matteo relieved of his duties just 262 days into the job and with one Champions League win under his belt.

Chelsea have stated that “the club will be making an announcement shortly regarding a new first team manager.” This suggests they have been sounding out potential replacements.

Pep Guardiola is believed to be the long-term target for Abramovich, but the noises coming out of the Spaniard’s camp are that he is not prepared to end his year-long sabbatical.

Avram Grant, he has form for stepping in at Chelsea, is in the mix – as is a certain Harry Redknapp – but the early reports are claiming former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is next in line. He’s the early favourite but these markets have a habit of fluctuating wildly.