Chelsea sack Scolari

Chelsea have sacked manager Luiz Felipe Scolari after falling behind in the English Premier League title race, the club announced here Monday.

The Blues are trailing leaders Manchester United by seven points and a statement issued by the London club said: “Unfortunately, the results and performances of the team appeared to be deteriorating at a key time in the season.”

The Brazilian, in his first season at the club owned by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, was sacked with immediate effect.

Chelsea’s statement added: “The search for a new manager had already started and we hope to have someone in place as soon as possible.”

Assistant manager Ray Wilkins, a former Chelsea captain, will take charge of Chelsea on a temporary basis.

Scolari’s sacking came after Chelsea were booed off the pitch by their own fans at Stamford Bridge following a goalless draw with top-flight new boys Hull on Saturday.