FULHAM v CHELSEA Relationship at top key to Rosenior's new Blueprint

FROM Chelsea's point of view, it was a relative no-brainer who would be replacing Enzo Maresca.

- BY BOBBY VINCENT

After the dramatic break up between the Blues and their former head coach was announced on New Year's Day, the west London club had already started contingency planning.

A few options were considered but the one that always seemed to stand out was Liam Rosenior.

Having been at Strasbourg, who are owned by BlueCo, for just under 18 months, Rosenior has already worked with the sporting directors and ownership group.

The 41-year-old coach has a close working relationship with Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, Chelsea's two sporting directors, and that played an enormous role in the club's decision. Rosenior, who has signed a five-and-a-half year contract - with the option of a further 12 months - at Stamford Bridge, is seen as someone who has the leadership qualities and personality to lead the young squad.