CHELSEA have axed manager Roberto Di Matteo – less than six months after leading them to Champions League glory.

Last night's defeat against Juventus in Turin was the final straw for owner Roman Abramovich as their chances of retaining the trophy were left hanging by a thread.

Chelsea have lost four of their last eight games in all competitions, and the Russian owner felt a change was necessary now to halt the slide.

A club statement said: "The team's recent performances and results have not been good enough and the owner and the Board felt that a change was necessary now to keep the club moving in the right direction as we head into a vitally important part of the season.

“The club faces a difficult task ahead in qualifying for the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League as well as maintaining a strong challenge for the top of the Premier League while competing in three other cup competitions.

“Our aim is to remain as competitive as possible and challenge strongly on all fronts.

“The owner and the Board would like to thank Roberto for all he has done for the club since taking over in March. Roberto helped guide us to an historic Champions League victory and a seventh FA Cup.

“We will never forget the huge contribution he has made to this club's history and he will always be welcome at Stamford Bridge.”

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