Chelsea boss Roberto di Matteo says his sacking by West Bromwich Albion was the best thing for his career.

Di Matteo was booted out of The Hawthorns in February 2011 despite having just guided them into the Premier League.

Yet the Italian had the last laugh big-style. Not only did he get the Blues job just 13 months later but he guided the club to FA Cup and Champions League glory.

Today he returns to West Brom and said: "Look where I'm sitting now.

"I'm not so sure being sacked was a bad thing. There are many examples of good managers where it didn't work out with a club.

"They were successful before and were again after.

"I had a great time at West Brom. I worked with a lot of good people there, the supporters were kind to me as well.

"In management, you're going to get sacked at some point. It makes you stronger. I don't hold any grudges.

"I learned a lot of things - which people to trust, who not to trust."