Ray Wilkins' dramatic departure from Chelsea is being linked to a row with chief executive Ron Gourlay. The Daily Express says the pair had a blazing row after Gourlay criticised the management team's use of substitutes.
It was while watching the reserves that popular assistant manager Wilkins was told his contract was not being renewed.
Wilkins and owner Roman Abramovich argued during the summer and his deteriorating relationship with the club hierarchy may have contributed to his unexpected departure.
Wilkins, who was replaced by Michael Emenalo, is taking Chelsea to court with the help of the League Managers' Association, claiming unfair dismissal.
His exit, to which manager Carlo Ancelotti voiced his opposition, has caused major unrest at Stamford Bridge.
