Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti stressed it was the club's shock decision to dispense with the services of club stalwart Ray Wilkins. Wilkins was in the dugout for Wednesday night's win over Fulham but his long association with the Blues came to an abrupt end less than 24 hours later via a brief statement on the official website.
Ancelotti said: "I want to say one thing. Ray was a fantastic assistant coach - I want to say thanks to him because he was a fantastic support last season and this season.
"He did a fantastic job and helped me and all the team to win the double, so the first thing is to say a lot of thanks to him.
"He is my friend, I have a fantastic relationship with him and I will have a fantastic relationship with him.
"He knew very well English football and has a lot of experience as assistant. His job he did very well.
"The club made this decision, I think it was a difficult decision for everyone but I have respect for this decision. I have trust in all the staff working with me, and now we have to move on.
"We have to look forward, stay focused on the next game because it is an important season for us and it is important to move on.
"I spoke with the players to tell them the club made the decision, but as I said before we have to move on and stay focused. The players are in focus and will continue to stay focused."
