Frank Lampard has been sacked by Chelsea on Monday following a dismal slump in form that sees them sit ninth in the Premier League table.
The players were told not to come to the training ground until Monday afternoon as Lampard becomes the 10th manager sacked during the Roman Abramovich era.
Confirmation of his sacking came just before 11.30am on Monday after the club took decisive action following a torrid run of five losses in eight league games.
They announced the decision in a statement, saying: “This has been a very difficult decision, and not one that the owner and the Board have taken lightly.
“We are grateful to Frank for what he has achieved in his time as Head Coach of the Club. However, recent results and performances have not met the Club’s expectations, leaving the Club mid-table without any clear path to sustained improvement.
“There can never be a good time to part ways with a club legend such as Frank, but after lengthy deliberation and consideration it was decided a change is needed now to give the Club time to improve performances and results this season.”
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich added: “This was a very difficult decision for the Club, not least because I have an excellent personal relationship with Frank and I have the utmost respect for him’.
“He is a man of great integrity and has the highest of work ethics. However, under current circumstances we believe it is best to change managers.
“On behalf of everyone at the Club, the Board and personally, I would like to thank Frank for his work as Head Coach and wish him every success in the future.
“He is an important icon of this great club and his status here remains undiminished. He will always be warmly welcomed back at Stamford Bridge.”
