Jose Mourinho leaves Chelsea on a new low

The defending champions are one point above the relegation zone after losing nine of their first 16 Premier League matches this season.

Hiddink, who previously managed Chelsea to FA Cup glory in 2009, has been linked with a short-term switch to Stamford Bridge and Kezman said the Dutchman is set to return.

The personal conduct of the self-styled “Special One” was also proving damaging to Chelsea, with Mourinho engaging in public spats with referees, a television rights holder and even the club’s doctor over the previous year.

Whatever the future holds for both Chelsea and Jose Mourinho, it’ll be interesting to see how both fare once the dust settles and they each get back to doing what they do best.

Chelsea’s players were not to blame for manager Jose Mourinho’s sacking, says technical director Michael Emenalo.

“There obviously seems to be palpable discord between manager and players, and we feel it was time to act”.

On whether he would be at Stamford Bridge for Chelsea’s game against Norwich City on Saturday, Hiddink said: “That (attending the game) is something the coaches do”.

“If Abramovich chose Ancelotti, it’s a good opportunity”.

“Anybody, any fan, or those who have any kind of affiliation to the club can understand this club is in trouble”.

Former Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas was forced to fend off rumours he had led dressing room revolts against Mourinho earlier in the season.

“Make no mistake about it, the club is working vigorously and actively to make sure a managerial appointment is taken care of as soon as possible”.

They criticised the club for a lack of loyalty to a manager who delivered three Premier League titles and numerous other trophies during his two spells in charge.

“The club wishes to make clear Jose leaves us on good terms and will always remain a much-loved, respected and significant figure at Chelsea”, Chelsea said in a statement.