CHELSEA won't bow to player power in their search for a new boss, according to chief executive Ron Gourlay .

The Blues hope to name a permanent replacement for Andre Villas-Boas in the next couple of weeks after discussions with the board and owner Roman Abramovich.

Roberto Di Matteo is in the mix for the post after leading the club to FA Cup and Champions League glory following his spell in the hotseat.

The Italian also has the backing of the Stamford Bridge dressing room after turning around the club's fortunes following the sacking of AVB in March.

However, Gourlay insists it will be the club's hierarchy who call the shots.

He said: “The players will always have a view, but at the end of the day it will be the owners and the board of directors that will decide the best way forward.

“Of course we speak to the players and we’re always listening, but we won’t get into the scenario where the players pick the next manager.”

Gourlay admits Di Matteo has strengthened his arm following the European triumph in Munich this week.

Former England boss Fabio Capello and Pep Guardiola have also been touted for the posted.

But Gourlay insists the club haven't approached anyone else for the role.

He added: “Robbie has done a fantastic job. The fact that he has the Champions League on his CV helps him enormously.

“[We will look to make an appointment] any time over the next couple of weeks and certainly by the time we go on tour.

"The players report back on July 4 or 5 and in ideal world you want the coach in position by then.

“I know there has been speculation in the press and media about conversations with X,Y or Z. That has not been the case.

“We will sit down with a board of directors and our owner as quickly as we can and take our decision from there.”

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