Chelsea fans have been rocked by news that boss Carlo Ancelotti is seeking expert advice about leaving his job. The Sun says the Italian boss contacted the League Managers' Association last night to discuss his position.
Ancelotti had seen his side lose 1-0 at Birmingham- their third defeat in four games - and he has been upset by the recent axing of No 2 Ray Wilkins.
Unknown Nigerian Michael Emenalo was then brought in as Wilkins' replacement.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich was delighted as Ancelotti started his reign last season by leading the Blues to the Double.
But now the manager has confessed he lacks total charge of team affairs.
Ancelotti claims he is merely a technical director for the Premier League leaders, not the main man like Alex Ferguson at rivals Manchester United.
He said: "You compare me with Ferguson, it's a different position. Ferguson has total control of the team. I have just technical direction. Full stop. OK?"
Ancelotti spoke out with Chelsea reeling from the St Andrew's defeat and they are now only ahead of United on goal difference.
He was also attempting to counter continuing criticism over the shock departure of Wilkins and the controversial appointment of Emenalo.
But Ancelotti's comments have backfired, sparking more wrangling for the champions amid spiralling speculation about his future and a growing crisis at Stamford Bridge.
The revelation is seen as final confirmation of what has long been suspected about the Abramovich era.
That the ins and outs at the club, including players, are decided not by the coach but by the board.
The coach is expected just to accept it and get on with it.
