Chelsea name Liam Rosenior replacement to take charge for FA Cup semi-final vs Leeds

• 

• Chelsea
• Chelsea News
• Next Chelsea manager

Chelsea have moved on from Liam Rosenior and confirmed who will be in charge of the club until the end of the season as they prepare to face Leeds United in the FA Cup semi-final

Calum McFarlane will take charge of Chelsea until the end of the season while the club look for a new head coach. McFarlane takes an interim position for the second time this season following the sacking of Liam Rosenior.

The Blues plan to 'self-reflect' before making a new permanent appointment after a disastrous end to Rosenior's spell in charge. It is understood that the club are not in active talks with any potential successor at this moment in time.

The former Strasbourg boss replaced Enzo Maresca in January but oversaw a run of five defeats without troubling the scoresheet before being given his marching orders. Defeat to Brighton appeared to be the final straw as Rosenior took aim at his players' effort in the aftermath.

FOLLOW OUR CHELSEA FB PAGE! Latest Blues news, analysis and much more via our dedicated Facebook page

In his previous two matches in charge, McFarlane was winless, earning a draw and a defeat. He did guide the Blues to a draw against Manchester City before falling to defeat against local rivals Fulham.

The club outlined their plan in their statement confirming Rosenior's exit. "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," a statement read.

"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."

Former under-21s boss McFarlane commented on his situation ahead of facing Manchester City in January. "It's always awkward when an interim comes in and it's more for them than it is for us," he said.

"It's about them producing the level of performance that they've done before against top sides. We've had some top results this year and we know what this side is capable of. My message to them is bringing the best version of themselves and being all in it together and believing that we can get the next couple of days right and hopefully put in a good performance on Sunday."